Hershey CEO Kirk Tanner on GLP-1s, AI, and keeping an iconic brand relevant
TL;DR
Hershey Co. chief executive Kirk Tanner explains why GLP-1 weight-loss drugs are not killing the candy business, and how AI is directing the company's sales force in real time. In the interview with Fast Company, Tanner also discusses how to keep an iconic brand relevant as consumer habits shift. The conversation offers a view of how a large consumer goods company is putting AI to work in day-to-day field sales.
Nauti's Take
Hershey shows how AI can deliver a concrete advantage in day-to-day sales by telling field reps in real time where to focus. The catch: a CEO interview does not prove how much of this shows up in revenue, and real-time direction can also sideline the judgment of sales teams.
Consumer goods companies should pilot this in one region before switching the entire field force.
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