Six innovative retail technology initiatives
These retailers and brands are leading the way in providing technology and experiences that are one step ahead of their customers’ expectations.
1. Flipkart
India’s Flipkart has launched Flipkart Leap, the Walmart-owned e-commerce giant’s first startup accelerator.
This will identify B2C and B2B startups and help them scale through a 16-week virtual programme.
2. Facebook
Facebook has announced that applications are open for its Facebook Accelerator: Commerce initiative.
"We are looking for commerce startups based in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America who are renewing shopping experiences for buyers and sellers," Rowly Bourne, Head of VC Partnerships and Startup Growth, said in a LinkedIn post.
3. Ahold Delhaize
Ahold Delhaize has selected 10 finalists for its AI for Retail AIR Lab Cleaning Bot Challenge.
On 13th August, these companies will showcase and pitch their autonomous cleaning robots.
Finalists as follows: Avidbots Corp., Diversey, Fybots, Gaussian Robotics, Tennant Company, A&K Robotics, ADLATUS Robotics, Avular, Brain Corp and RoboticsINDinc.
4. Amazon
Amazon is in talks with US mall owner Simon Property Group to turn JCPenney and Sears locations into scaled down fulfilment centres.
5. Burberry
Burberry is among the brands which have been quickest to embrace the marketing potential of TikTok, according to research by Digitaloft.
6. Marks and Spencer
Marks and Spencer has increased its Mobile Pay Go network from 100 to 310 stores.
The service enables customers to buy their groceries (up to the value of £30) without visiting a till, using the M&S mobile app. The latest roll-out move marks a shift from predominantly London-based stores to a UK-wide offering.
