MOBILE BARCODE SCANNERS
the growing and continuous demand for automation and inventory accuracy, which is leading to a strong push for RFID. Overall, consumer demands are increasing, faster shipping times are required as is accurate data information. If you’re offering buy online, pick up in store (BOPIS) you need to be able to supply inventory in a very short amount of time and this is becoming paramount to a retailer’s success and is an essential core component of the customer experience. We are seeing many customers throughout retail adopt RFID for different use cases and whereas it might predominantly have been used in the past for cycle counting in retail stores, we’re now also seeing it used for different applications across other verticals such as manufacturing.” Another major trend is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into mobile barcode scanning, says Andres. “That will continue into the next several years,” he adds. “For example, using AI algorithms, high-speed processing and decoding enhancements, certain mobile scanners can increase scanning speed by an average of 45% compared to prior models without AI. This allows workers in distribution centres and retail to perform tasks faster and ultimately serve customers more efficiently. “Scan-As-You-Shop (SAYS) technology is another key trend providing retailers opportunities for brand engagement and shortening checkout times for shoppers. SAYS enables shoppers to use mobile barcode readers to scan items as they shop, streamlining the checkout process and providing real-time tracking of spending. Some SAYS technology also allows for checkout directly from a mobile device versus waiting in line at checkout. Customers benefit from a more convenient and personalised shopping experience through tailored coupons and loyalty program information accessed directly on an easy-to-use device.” Andres adds that eco-accountability
is another key trend driving technology investment in retail. “Customers are actively seeking brands that prioritise sustainability,” he says. “Circular business models – offering repairs or resale – and adopting sustainable packaging are no longer just nice-to-have – they are major differentiators that can influence purchasing decisions.”
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By enabling staff to guide customers to
Customer experience The customer experience is another driving factor in uptake. “In retail there is, and always will be, a big emphasis on customer experience,” says Jong. “We now live in a world where, with a single click of a button, we can get items shipped and delivered within a short space of time. Having accurate inventory and being able to deliver and ship to these standards is what retailers have to compete with. This reinforces the demand for automation and the push for RFID as inventory accuracy is the cornerstone to achieve success.” Andres adds that today’s shoppers are seeking seamless, personalised and responsible retail experiences. “Unified commerce is a growing expectation: customers want a consistent experience whether shopping online, in-store or through mobile,” he says. “They expect real-time product availability, accessible order history and returns to be easily managed across all channels. This requires retailers to operate from a single,
the correct aisle, check backroom inventory, or assist them in completing a purchase without queuing at tills, these devices transform traditional retail interactions...
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