The five most important retail tech news stories of the week
It’s Friday, so let’s kick back and reflect on another eventful week for the retail technology space. Here's your briefing on the most important and interesting stories from the past few days.
1. IWD 2021: 10 female retail technology leaders
To mark International Women’s Day 2021, RTIH showcased 10 women making positive impacts on the retail technology sector.
2. Marks and Spencer rethinks Marble Arch store as shoppers migrate online
Marks and Spencer’s Marble Arch store (one of its largest locations in London) is to be redeveloped, with the upper floors converted to office space.
This is part of the retailer’s Never the Same Again transformation programme, which also includes the recent launch of 46 flagship websites in new markets, expanding its online reach to over 100 countries.
3. UK online retailers maintain strong start to year with fab Feb
With a coronavirus lockdown still in place, and non essential physical retailers closed, UK e-commerce sales rose by 69.5% YoY in February, according to research from IMRG and Capgemini.
Though falling short of January’s record breaking +74% growth, February’s figures were still significantly higher than the rolling averages of three, six and twelve months (+57.1% +42.5% and +42.7%, YoY respectively).
4. The Very Group prepares for hybrid working with Liverpool HQ revamp
Digital retailer The Very Group has refurbished its Liverpool HQ with an emphasis on hybrid working.
At Skyways House – a 12,400-square metre, former aircraft hangar – the company, formerly known as Shop Direct and owner of the Very and Littlewoods brands, has introduced an open plan environment with various break-out and collaboration spaces.
5. John Lewis & Partners talks Marxent 3D visualisation tech roll-out
Karen Reeves, Customer Experience & Retail Transformation Manager, John Lewis & Partners, tells RTIH about the retailer’s 3D commerce journey and its trial and roll-out of Marxent technology.
