Retail’s Next Bold Move: Embracing Artificial Intelligence for the Frontline

In the fast-paced world of retail, staying ahead of changing consumer demands is more challenging than ever. As retailers strive to enhance customer experiences and maintain competitiveness, many are turning to the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI). Zebra Technologies is at the forefront of this movement, offering AI solutions that unlock the potential of frontline operations, allowing retailers to make smarter business decisions.

Confidence Is Building Around AI

The integration of AI into retail operations is not just a trend-it's becoming an essential strategy. Retail stakeholders are increasingly recognizing AI as a vital tool for more effective and efficient frontline operations.

According to our 17th Annual Global Shopper Study, there's a growing consensus among decision-makers that AI will significantly impact retail experiences in the next three years.

How Generative AI (GenAI) is Reshaping the Retail Experience

GenAI is making waves in the retail industry, promising enhanced customer interactions and streamlined operations. With a focus on personalization, AI is set to transform how retailers engage with consumers, offering unique and tailored experiences that meet individual preferences.

According to our study, decision-makers are actively planning to deploy AI technologies, driven by the need to address several key challenges:

• Consumer Expectations: A staggering 76% of shoppers expect personalized experiences based on their preferences.
• Workplace Complexity: 79% of retail associates report that the increasing complexity of their roles is a source of stress.
• Inventory Management: 85% of decision-makers acknowledge the need for better inventory tools to enhance accuracy and availability.

How GenAI is Reshaping the Retail Experience

GenAI is making waves in the retail industry, promising enhanced customer interactions and streamlined operations. With a focus on personalization, AI is set to transform how retailers engage with consumers, offering unique and tailored experiences that meet individual preferences.

• 76% of shoppers agree that AI will improve their shopping experience.
• 87% of associates believe AI will help them be more productive.

Decision-makers are actively planning to deploy AI technologies by 2029, driven by the need to address several key challenges:

• 90% of decision-makers expect AI will enhance retail operations.
• Key applications include dynamic pricing, supply chain optimization, loss prevention and fraud detection.

With shoppers expecting more and associates feeling the strain, the retail industry is under pressure to find solutions that meet these demands. AI is poised to deliver, helping retailers optimize decisions with actionable intelligence and improve demand forecasting.

Zebra's AI Solutions: Built for Frontline Operations

Zebra Technologies offers a suite of AI solutions designed to revolutionize frontline operations:

• Actionable Intelligence: Our prescriptive analytics turn insights into actionable decisions, optimizing pricing, labor, and inventory management.
• Forecasting & Analysis: Employ AI-driven predictive models to forecast demand and strategize pricing effectively.
• Intelligent Inventory Management: Gain complete visibility across shelves and channels with AI-powered inventory solutions.
• Machine Vision: Leverage advanced machine vision to detect in-store anomalies and mitigate shrink risks.

By integrating these AI solutions, retailers can enhance decision-making processes, streamline operations, and ultimately deliver a superior shopping experience for consumers.

Explore how Zebra's AI-driven solutions are reshaping the retail landscape by visiting our Global Shopper Study and check out more interesting data in this infographic below.