Physical stores far from dead as they tap AI and smart technology in an omnichannel world

The physical store is far from dead. In fact it’s evolving. With the support of AI and smart communication tools, retailers can elevate the in-store experience, empower teams, and deliver more connected and engaging customer journeys.

So says Mitchell Bench, Retail Change Support Manager at New Look.

He was speaking in the aftermath of VoCoVo’s Retail Innovation Day. The event brought together retailers from across the UK for two days of collaboration, insight, and, yep, you guessed it, innovation.

In a LinkedIn post, Bench said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to: explore retail innovation and the tech shaping the future of in-store and digital experiences; share insight into the current retail landscape and evolving customer expectations; discuss innovation goals and how to stay agile in a fast changing market; network with industry peers and exchange ideas on the future of retail.”

He added: “We also heard an inspiring talk from The Retail Trust, highlighting how we can better support our teams wellbeing and foster a people first culture across retail.”

Day two saw a Retail Safari, which involved visiting a range of retailers, from industry leaders like Gymshark, John Lewis, and North Face, to innovative independent stores - all showcasing how they’re thinking outside the box through retail theatre, technology, and immersive customer experiences.

Bench concluded: “A huge thank you to the VoCoVo team for hosting such an engaging and thought provoking event. It’s exciting to see how innovation, technology, and people are coming together to shape the future of retail.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Physical stores will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which are now closed for entries with our finalists and shortlists being announced last week, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.