Sales associates not worried about automation replacing their jobs

Despite the hype around robots taking over more retail duties, US sales associates remain unmoved, according to research by Raydiant. 

The company surveyed 500 people at bricks and mortar retail locations, 74% of whom worked for major chains, such as Walmart or Nordstrom, while the remainder were based at independently owned businesses. 

It found that only 12% believed robots would replace their roles, with most associates feeling they would not be affected or they could work together.

Half of survey respondents, meanwhile, said their stores had implemented stricter cleaning and sanitary procedures during the coronavirus outbreak, and 43% expected to keep these in place after the pandemic. For curbside pickup, 29% stated that their stores had adopted the change and 23% believed the offering would become permanent.

Bobby Marhamat, CEO at Raydiant, says: "As bricks and mortar retailers prepare to reopen, sales associates will play a critical role in creating in-store experiences that give customers a reason to visit their physical location. Forward-thinking operators will empower their sales associates by providing them with tools and training to create these experiences." 

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