Why the Future of Retail Is Still Local

In this episode, Andrew Stern, CEO of Quilt Software, joins Norbert Strappler to reveal how small retailers are using modern software to fight back against outdated systems and big-box competition. From POS innovation to community loyalty, discover why Main Street still matters, and how tech can make it thrive again.

Andrew Stern is the CEO of Quilt Software, a purpose-built platform powering 20,000+ specialty retailers across North America. With 20+ years in software, he’s redefining how small businesses use technology to compete without losing their personal touch.

Quilt Software gives independent retailers modern, industry-specific tools for POS, inventory, and omnichannel sales, combining enterprise power with small-business simplicity.

The No.1 eCom Operations hack
“Small retail is a completely different sales process. There's no IT department, no procurement department... It is literally one person behind the counter.”

You Will Learn:

Why retail isn’t dying, but evolving
The tech gap leaving small retailers behind
How to build loyalty that’s human, not transactional
Why the right software must serve your niche
What Main Street will look like by 2030

Show Notes:

(00:02:18) What made you realize Main Street retailers were left behind by tech?
(00:04:29) What was the biggest mindset shift from corporate to small retail?
(00:07:44) How do you work with retailers who handle everything as one person?
(00:09:01) What do you mean by "the future of retail is local"?
(00:10:38) Why do specialized small stores deliver more value than franchises?
(00:13:34) Should retailers build their own online stores or use marketplaces?
(00:16:30) What would be the first three chapters of a survival manual for retailers in 2025?
(00:18:32) Why do small retailers resist adopting new technology?
(00:20:23) What does loyalty look like for independent retailers today?
(00:22:56) How would you reimagine Main Street in 2030?
(00:24:28) Who taught you the most about e-commerce?