Expert Insights
August 12, 2026
What if better tech integration—not bigger budgets—was the secret weapon for independent grocers? In this episode, Matt Swanson, VP of Operations at North Country, joins Audrey Hogan to share how small grocery retailers can punch above their weight by unifying their systems and embracing bleeding-edge point of sale (POS) solutions.
With insights from the NGA Show and real-world examples, Matt breaks down why connecting data silos, investing in automation, and empowering employees with the right tools can transform even the smallest operation into a market leader. If you’re looking to drive efficiency and outpace your competitors, this conversation is a must-listen.
Technology Education Is Growing: Independent grocers are becoming more educated and strategic in how they evaluate and adopt technology.
Data Integration Matters: Connecting disparate systems to reduce manual work and improve data accuracy is now a top priority.
POS Systems Must Be Smart: Modern point-of-sale systems are about more than transactions—they must support data flow and operational insights.
Size Doesn’t Limit Sophistication: Even small grocers can outperform big players by leveraging efficient, agile tech solutions.
Security Awareness Is Low: Many retailers assume PCI DSS compliance is automatic, which can leave them exposed to risk.
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POS (Point of Sale): The place where retail transactions are completed, usually involving software and hardware.
PCI DSS Compliance: Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards, required for handling credit card information securely.
Data Silos: Isolated data systems that don’t communicate with each other, leading to inefficiencies.
Implementation Team: A group responsible for setting up systems and software for client use.
Integration Hub: Software that connects different systems, enabling them to work together smoothly.
00:06 – Audrey Hogan:
Would you just introduce yourself? Name, title, where you work?
00:09 – Matt Swanson:
Matt Swanson, Vice President of Operations at North Country. We’re a point of sale reseller and software developer in the Midwest.
00:16 – Audrey Hogan:
Fantastic. What was your first hourly job?
00:19 – Matt Swanson:
My first hourly job was a sandwich maker at Cousin Subs. I was about 15 at the time.
00:25 – Audrey Hogan:
What did you love about making sandwiches?
00:27 – Matt Swanson:
It wasn’t just the sandwiches—it was learning the menu, being good at it, outperforming others, and making customers smile. I took pride in the job.
00:49 – Audrey Hogan:
Everyone in leadership always says their “why” is people. And many learn that from early jobs. Tell me about your current day-to-day.
01:12 – Matt Swanson:
I do a lot of talking—mostly meetings. Two weeks ago, I had 48 meetings. But through that, I coach people. I help them succeed and grow. That’s the part I enjoy most.
02:20 – Audrey Hogan:
Hopefully your team isn’t stuck in 48 meetings too.
02:23 – Matt Swanson:
Exactly.
02:24 – Audrey Hogan:
Tell me more about your team’s outputs and what you’re delivering.
02:31 – Matt Swanson:
I oversee operations outside of sales and finance—software development, remote and onsite support, and implementation. Each team has different metrics, but our shared goal is mutual success for our people and our clients.
03:56 – Audrey Hogan:
The best part is when clients realize the impact beyond the pitch deck during implementation.
04:14 – Matt Swanson:
Exactly. I used to install systems and saw firsthand the relief and excitement from clients. Now I get to support those moments at scale.
04:48 – Audrey Hogan:
At NGA, it seems retailers are finally ready for transformation. What’s your takeaway?
06:04 – Matt Swanson:
Retailers are asking smarter questions. Tech used to just mean POS, but now they want real integration. They’re seeing the inefficiencies of siloed systems.
07:36 – Audrey Hogan:
What percent of folks said PCI compliance was their top priority?
07:42 – Matt Swanson:
Probably low—maybe 10%.
08:01 – Audrey Hogan:
It was 11%. Tell me why it’s not top-of-mind.
08:30 – Matt Swanson:
Many assume vendors handle it all. While tech like P2PE helps, retailers still have to follow secure processes.
09:14 – Audrey Hogan:
What cool projects are your teams working on?
10:10 – Matt Swanson:
Our Pyxis platform is a big focus. It’s an integration hub that’s processed billions in sales. It reduces manual work and improves decision-making.
11:06 – Audrey Hogan:
That’s a future-proof move. Some aren’t there yet, but it’s coming.
11:19 – Matt Swanson:
Agreed. The mature operators—big or small—are driving that conversation now.
11:51 – Audrey Hogan:
Small operators often think they don’t need tech, but some are outperforming the big guys.
12:56 – Matt Swanson:
Absolutely. Smaller players with strong culture and smart tech are crushing it.
13:41 – Audrey Hogan:
Any final thoughts on what you’re bringing to NGA?
13:46 – Matt Swanson:
Point of sale remains core, but we’re focused on connecting systems and breaking data silos with our Pixis platform. It’s exciting to see how that resonates.
14:44 – Audrey Hogan:
Thanks so much. How can people get in touch?
14:52 – Matt Swanson:
Find us on LinkedIn or visit ncbpinc.com. Reach out directly to me, Matt Swanson, on LinkedIn.
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