Mark Scanlan

Opportunities for using automation in retail operations are limitless. As retailers evaluate these opportunities, they need to consider the types of work that can be automated, which improvements can be realized, the capabilities and limitations of technology, and the effort required to implement automated capabilities.

Contactless payment, fulfillment and transaction options give consumers safe and convenient ways to shop and receive products while providing retailers new ways to develop brand loyalty, increase share of their customers’ wallets, and reduce costs.

Retail is seeing a resurgence of experiential and in-store shopping experiences and the industry has been forced to make the effort to move to a true “multi-channel” model. Online and offline are now integrated and experiences tap into the capabilities of every channel the retailer offers. Integrating all the possible options into a truly multi-channel experience, that allows the consumer to shop and transact on their terms, gives retailers more opportunities to strengthen customer retention and brand loyalty.

Retail organizations are developing strategies for more sustainable products and operations: reducing environmental impact by building more efficient stores and facilities, using electric vehicles in supply-chain and fulfillment operations, choosing sustainable packaging, and implementing more efficient processes across their operations. By using technology to give better visibility into their operations, retailers can monitor the impact these initiatives have on their sustainability goals. Technology can also help them identify even more ways to reduce energy consumption and provide better service to customers.

Segmenting your retail network is critical to keep traffic prioritized and transactional data secure. Here's how retailers are capitalizing on this functionality to enhance customer and associate experiences.