Constantly changing customer needs/options; labor shortage; continuous supply chain disruption; access to customer preference data; a more digital savvy consumer base; customer’s recent sustainability preference will set the tone for how the retail industry evolves. In the future we can expect retailers’ online stores to use augmented reality (AR/VR) to give consumers a realistic view of their products, better inventory management due to automated warehouse inventory management, shorter delivery times due to the use of more 3PLs. BOPIS methods may also incorporate better robotic technologies to help store associates to fulfil a shopping cart and bring the customer order curbside.

Smitha Raphael

Chief Product & Delivery Officer, Synergy Logistics