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Three Tech Trends in the Retail Industry


An accomplished retail consultant, Matthew Hamory brings nearly two decades of experience to his role as a managing director with AlixPartners in Boston. As part of his professional duties, Matthew Hamory pays close attention to the latest technology developments in the retail sector.

From the first cash registers to the rise of Internet shopping, technology has been tightly integrated with the retail industry. Here are some ways technologists and retail observers see technology shaping the retail industry in the near future:

AI Personalization: New developments in artificial intelligence bring exciting potential for the use of data for targeted marketing and personalized shopping experiences. For example, AI-powered algorithms could make personalized style recommendations to apparel consumers.

Smart Carts: GPS technology and the Internet of Things promise new in-store shopping experiences. Among other possibilities, shopping carts equipped with GPS technology and Internet connectivity could tap into shoppers’ online grocery lists and direct the shopper through the aisles.

Voice Shopping: The surge of smart devices like Google Home and Amazon Echo coupled with smart assistants like Apple’s Siri has led to a new frontier of consumer engagement. With a majority of smart-device owners using these tools to make purchases, re-thinking online listings and SEO strategies will be a must for retailers in the near future.

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