Technology has transformed businesses and industries beyond comprehension. The way we do business today is far different from how it was done 20 or even 10 years ago. Technological evolution has paved way for new trends and innovations to take over. One such industry that has transformed significantly because of it is the retail industry. Shopping is one of the most liked and most popular hobbies and with technology making everything easier, there’s no doubt it has also simplified online shopping for us!
We no longer have to drive or walk to the store, add everything to our trolley and stand in the queue for hours to pay by cash. The retail experience is drastically changed now, thanks to technology. The industry is fully equipped with tools, resources, and software to deliver quality experiences, services, and products to customers worldwide. Retail technology is setting out new trends every year and here are a few that surely caught our eye, and can’t wait to see more of them in 2022!
Facial Recognition
Retail stores would ask customers to join loyalty programs to gain points and redeem them for a discount on their next purchases. However, this is how they would collect customer data and use it to identify customers later. The purpose of doing so is to personalize customer experiences. Now, things are done differently for the same purpose. Most retailers are making the best use of facial recognition technology to identify customers.
This allows the brand to learn more about their customer, what they like, what they don’t like, what’s in their wish list, their buying patterns, and their usual budget. Knowing such insights enables the brand to create custom experiences that accommodate the customers more comfortably.
Big Data predictive analysis
Data is what drives the world today; it’s what makes money for companies. Industries for years have relied on data collection and gathering to personalize experiences and build valuable relationships. It’s no different for the retail industry. Businesses in retail are always striving to create excellent customer support and personalized customer experiences. So, they use data to do it. They collect data, come up with solutions and offer a better experience by tracking customer habits, behavior, and buying patterns. Not much is needed to collect data in today’s time. Connect with customers via EarthLink internet and collect relevant data to improve customer experiences.
Virtual And Augmented Reality
The power of augmented and virtual reality is undeniable when it comes to transforming and personalizing customer experiences. This technology allows customers to virtually test the products before purchasing them, so they can make an informed decision. Customers can make a better and smarter choice as they can explore the product range freely and learn more about the product and brand. It’s also a fun and interactive way to visualize the product in your space or on you without spending any money.
Internet Of Things
The Internet of Things refers to the technology that connects the devices to one another and establishes communication between them. Smart home automation is becoming popular day by day and its potential to grow and expand is incredible. Beacons, these tiny wireless devices have the power to change an entire phenomenon and they hold insane potential in the retail industry too.
They allow your phone to pick up signals that lead you to the product or aisle you’re looking for. They use data to understand customer behavior, buying patterns, purchasing history, wish lists and thus create personalized experiences. Most companies also use RFID tags to track products and delivery status.
To Wrap It Up
The digital transformation of the retail industry and a radical shopper in this day and age is dramatic, to say the least. We have huge expectations for what else the retail industry has in store for us in terms of innovation and trends through the means of advanced technology.