While retail is one of the largest industries in the world, it hasn’t experienced the same level of disruption as other industries. Until recently, most retailers were slow to adopt technology and were reluctant to make changes to their business models. However, that's changing rapidly. Major retailers are now adopting a variety of tech tools to help them improve their operations and customer experience.
These tools allow retailers to get more insight into how consumers shop, what they like and dislike about the stores, and how they can use that information to optimize their businesses for customers' needs.
In-store kiosks
In-store kiosks are used to help customers find what they want, the right size, the right color and the right style. They can be used to help customers find the right product, learn more about it, and make a purchase. When you use in-store kiosks, it allows consumers to browse through your products and make purchases on the spot. They can also be used as an educational tool to teach customers about your company, its values, mission statement and history.
- The kiosks allow shoppers to browse through hundreds of products from top brands.
- Since many people have a hard time finding what they need in store, this helps them shop faster.
- These kiosks also allow shoppers to buy items without waiting in line at the cash register.
Augmented reality
Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes a computer-generated image on a user's view of the real world, thus providing a composite view. The most well-known example of AR is the technology found in Google Glass and Microsoft HoloLens, but this technology can also be used for shopping, entertainment, and education.
For example, consider an augmented reality app that lets customers see how different outfits look on them before they buy them. It could also show product information or reviews from other customers who have tried out some items at home already—all without leaving your house!
Voice-controlled systems
Voice controlled systems are a way to interact with a device without touching it. Voice is the most natural way to interact with technology and as such, voice control will make it easier for people to shop. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require users to learn new gestures or actions which can be confusing when trying something new.
People can ask what products are in stock at any time of day so they don't have to wait in line at checkout counters or call customer service later on their phones or home computers. Voice control also allows retailers access to consumer insights such as purchase history, shopping trends, demographics etc., allowing them greater understanding of their customers needs/wants and how best to meet those needs/wants through product offerings etc..
Digital shelf labels
Digital shelf labels are a new way to label products. They can be used to display product information, prices, and other information. These digital shelf labels can also be used to display ads and promotions. The best thing about these digital shelves is that they can be moved around when needed, making them very versatile. This type of technology would work great in a grocery store where the items on sale change often.
Smart mirrors/dressing rooms
While smart mirrors may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of in-store tech, dressing room technology is being used to help customers shop. Smart mirrors can show you different outfits and suggest new ones based on what you're wearing. They can also be used in conjunction with other pieces of clothing so that a garment's look can be more accurately judged.
Conclusion
There is no shortage of ways that retailers can use technology to improve their business. From self-checkout systems to augmented reality apps and smart mirrors, we’re seeing more and more retailers investing in these tools that will keep customers coming back for more.
While some may argue that this is just an attempt by big brands to squeeze out smaller shops, there’s no denying that it’s working—there’s almost always a line at the checkout station at my local grocery store, but hardly anyone ever uses them when I go into another chain store nearby! Whatever your opinion on what it means for our future economy though one thing's clear: these innovations are here to stay.
Wish to switch your retail business online? Book a discovery call today with Uncut Lab.
