Expert Insights
August 12, 2026
How do grocers overcome operational challenges and win in a competitive market?
In this Expert Insights interview, Audrey Hogan speaks with Michael Johnson, Vice President of Sales at TRUNO Retail Technology, to explore how listening and the right technology help grocers win and run more efficiently.
Michael shares lessons from his early career and explains why tuning into customer needs—paired with smart tech—is the secret to solving inefficiencies and staying ahead in today’s grocery space.
Start small and build with intention: Michael’s journey from lawncare to grocery sales leadership shows how every career can evolve through service and curiosity.
Listening is the most powerful leadership tool: Michael encourages others to stop talking and listen — customers will tell you what problems need solving.
The right technology can eliminate inefficiencies: His focus at TRUNO is helping grocers identify and implement tools that streamline operations.
Grocery experience matters in tech: Coming from the industry himself, Michael understands the pain points and speaks the grocer’s language.
Winning means solving real problems: It’s not about selling software — it’s about helping grocers succeed in their mission.
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TRUNO Retail Technology: A company that delivers solutions designed to eliminate inefficiencies and support operational improvements for grocery retailers.
Operational Efficiency: The ability of a business to deliver products and services in the most cost-effective way while maintaining high quality.
Grocery Technology: Tools and platforms that support store operations, inventory, workforce management, and customer experience in the grocery industry.
Retail Sales Leadership: A strategic role focused on aligning technology and services with customer success in the retail industry.
00:06 – Audrey Hogan:
So I am here with Michael Johnson. Tell me about your first job.
00:11 – Michael Johnson:
First job? Mowing lawns.
00:14 – Audrey Hogan:
What did you love about it?
00:16 – Michael Johnson:
Made like 20 bucks a day. That was a lot of money.
00:19 – Audrey Hogan:
Fantastic.
00:20 – Michael Johnson:
Bought a lot of fishing gear with that 20 bucks.
00:22 – Audrey Hogan:
What’s your job now?
00:24 – Michael Johnson:
I’m the VP of Sales for TRUNO Retail Technology.
00:28 – Audrey Hogan:
What do you love about that?
00:29 – Michael Johnson:
Helping grocers win.
00:31 – Audrey Hogan:
Yeah?
00:32 – Michael Johnson:
Yep.
00:32 – Audrey Hogan:
Tell me how you do that.
00:34 – Michael Johnson:
Make sure they have the right technology in their stores, eliminating inefficiencies in their operations. I came from groceries, so it’s nice to help them win and stop struggling.
00:44 – Audrey Hogan:
If someone is in their career and trying to grow, what would be the number one thing you’d recommend?
01:06 – Michael Johnson:
Shut up and listen to the people you’re trying to serve. They’ll tell you everything you need to know.
01:12 – Audrey Hogan:
So good. Thank you so much for your time.
01:15 – Michael Johnson:
My pleasure.
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