In this episode of Retail Right Now, Total Retail's Ashley Chiaradio and Kristina Stidham discuss an article recently published on Total Retail titled “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Retail,” authored by Rob Saker, global industry leader of retail and CPG at Databricks. Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a way to get ahead of competitors — it’s become a pivotal part of staying relevant in the industry and maintaining innovation. Saker writes that one way we’re seeing this is through the management of data. New capabilities, including in-store measurement; mobile commerce; buy online, pickup in store (BOPIS); and delivery services are changing the way the industry operates by focusing on understanding both the physical and digital shopper, and giving retailers access to data that was previously unavailable.

It’s clear that AI is key for retailers to succeed, but some organizations still aren't investing in the technology. Saker explains that uncertainty about how to begin and a perceived skills gap are some of the primary barriers to AI adoption among retail brands. To read the full article by Rob Saker and learn how your business can adopt AI technology, click here.

To learn more about AI and how technology is changing the retail industry, check out Total Retail’s 2020 Retail Technology Report, which provides valuable insights into the technology landscape within the retail industry. Download your free copy of the report here.