Touchless retail will thrive in a post coronavirus world
US shoppers want more voice-activated demos, augmented reality try-ons and mobile-activated self-checkout options in post-pandemic retail environments, according to research by Outform.
The company surveyed 1,000 Americans and found many of them want new tech that addresses their concerns around safer shopping experiences.
67% would like to see self-checkout options made available via mobile devices. 43% want to see voice-activated solutions. 33% are in favour of motion-sensor technology. 32% are fans of the QR code when it comes to hygienically engaging with retailers.
25%, meanwhile, believe appointment-only browsing will make shopping safer. In terms of which innovations and technologies will actively improve the retail experience: 49% of those polled are in favour of interactive merchandising displays; Voice activation is not far behind, with 41% open to it; And 22 feel that sensor projection will improve in-store visits.
Simon Hathaway, MD EMEA at Outform, says: “The survey showed an almost unanimous concern around safety among shoppers, and the statistics demonstrate a clear call for touchless retail as people seek to avoid physical interactions with products within the retail environment.”
“There’s an undeniable awareness - and excitement - that a return to physical retail ‘as normal’ has to take place, but our stats show shoppers are looking for retailers to invest in touchless tech and find new ways for them to interact with brands in-store.”
This could be the start of a new blueprint for in-store environments on both sides of the pond, he believes. “There are many shared shopping behaviours mirrored between the US to EMEA, so this sentiment is likely to resonate in EMEA - especially in the UK, which has shared a similar, drawn-out lockdown situation to the US.”
