What: Tech has evolved and now offers new possibilities for in-store equipment.

Why it is important:  There are many options available, meaning that tough choices in terms of capital and resource allocation need to be done.

In the post-pandemic era, consumers expect brick-and-mortar stores to provide the conveniences found in e-commerce, shifting the focus of in-store technology from customer engagement features to infrastructure solutions.

Brands like Kate Spade and Rebecca Minkoff previously introduced interactive displays and digital mirrors for customer engagement, while current technology aims to solve problems like inventory management through RFID, as seen with Farfetch.

Retailers like Showfields aim to enhance the shopping experience by providing more information and discounts through an app. Reformation digitises the try-on process with touchscreen monitors.

However, implementing these technologies is not without challenges, as they need to integrate with existing systems and provide measurable value to retailers.

How brands can choose the right in-store technology