Automation and the opportunity to bring customers back to the physical store
Posted: Thu Jul 10, 2025 5:16 am
The report, titled “ Smart Stores – Rebooting the retail store through in-store automation ,” found that most consumers who have already visited a store equipped with automation systems prefer to shop at such a retailer over one without them , a percentage that is higher among young people between the ages of 22 and 36. Most consumers believe that automation can help solve problems they encounter in-store, including long lines at checkout, difficulty locating products, and lack of availability.
The spread of automation offers competitive advantages
Automation plays a key role in bringing customers who buy bulk sms service previously relied on e-commerce closer to physical stores . Customers who had a positive experience with in-store automation said they were willing to make purchases they would normally make through the online platforms of highly digitally focused retailers (i.e., those who operate primarily through websites and apps and have only a few physical stores) at stores equipped with this type of technology.
Customers want retailers to combine automation and sustainability
Both retailers and customers recognize the need to combine automation with sustainability goals . Three-quarters of retailers surveyed believe automation can help them offer more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions , which aligns with consumers' growing desire to shop with retailers that demonstrate their commitment to environmental issues.
Retailers need to understand local trends
The report emphasizes the need to rigorously understand customer needs and concerns at the local level . While most consumers believe automation can address pain points within stores , there are both positive and negative nuances at the country level that the industry must address to succeed.
The spread of automation offers competitive advantages
Automation plays a key role in bringing customers who buy bulk sms service previously relied on e-commerce closer to physical stores . Customers who had a positive experience with in-store automation said they were willing to make purchases they would normally make through the online platforms of highly digitally focused retailers (i.e., those who operate primarily through websites and apps and have only a few physical stores) at stores equipped with this type of technology.
Customers want retailers to combine automation and sustainability
Both retailers and customers recognize the need to combine automation with sustainability goals . Three-quarters of retailers surveyed believe automation can help them offer more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions , which aligns with consumers' growing desire to shop with retailers that demonstrate their commitment to environmental issues.
Retailers need to understand local trends
The report emphasizes the need to rigorously understand customer needs and concerns at the local level . While most consumers believe automation can address pain points within stores , there are both positive and negative nuances at the country level that the industry must address to succeed.