David Woodland, Rowen, on ERP Chaos, Culture & the Future of Retail

In this episode, David Woodland, COO of Rowen Group, lifts the lid on what it really takes to run two of the fastest growing digital retail brands in the UK. From warehouse capacity problems to the reality of ERP switchouts, David shares the operational challenges that force leaders to rethink how their business actually works. He talks through the messy middle of tech projects, why the basics matter more than shiny tools and how retailers should choose between automating a touchpoint or keeping it human.

David also dives into leadership, culture and the psychology that drives both customers and teams. He explains why great retail managers are some of the most underrated leaders in business, why human connection still wins in a digital world and how brands like Rowen Homes and Pink Boutique continue to buck market trends. Packed with practical insights, this episode gives retailers a blueprint for thinking clearer, planning smarter and building a culture that can scale.

About Rowen Group
Rowen Group is a UK retail group encompassing Rowen Homes, a luxury furniture and homeware brand launched in 2020, and Pink Boutique, an online fashion retailer originally started with a £90 eBay investment. Both brands were built by entrepreneur Alice Rowen Hall, with operations based in the North East of England.