Testing areas, redesigned storefronts and facial scanning are among the new features forecast to hit the retail sector by 2040.
According to Euromonitor, physical retail outlets will remain a critical part of the shopping experience, despite the rise in e-commerce.
However, their engagement and purchase execution will evolve, and it says technology is playing a vital role.
In its Commerce 2040 report, it said the increased role of digital in commerce would create a fundamental shift in consumer values, as consumers are prioritising experiences over buying possessions.
This, it predicts, will likely push retailers and brands to make technological advances, and remove the hassle from shopping for mundane items.
“The journey is no longer just about the end-point - the purchase,” it read.
“Technology, like wearables and voice, will guide consumers throughout the store.
“Products will automatically be added to a virtual shopping cart upon selection, while robots will be leveraged for customer service and inventory management.”
Euromonitor also envisions facial scanning, which identifies customers as they enter the store, will lead to a more tailored experience and payments will automatically be made upon exiting.
Meanwhile, it also predicts virtual testing areas, which have become more prolific in the beauty sector, will become the norm in bricks-and-mortar.
How is beauty shaping up?
As the demand for retailers to offer personalised experiences continues, the beauty sector has been at the forefront of technological advancements in store.
Sephora
Earlier this year, Sephora launched its AI-powered mirror, which profiles consumers based on their age, look and style, for a ‘hyper’ personalised experience.
Douglas
Douglas’ new interactive Beauty Mirror enables customers to virtually ‘try-on’ products in store from more than 1,000 brands including Lancôme, IT Cosmetics, Urban Decay, YSL Beauté and Armani Beauty.
Bourjois
Coty-owned Bourjois introduced its first Magic Mirror at its Paris boutique in April last year, which allows customers to try-on products from its Bourjois’ Rouge Velvet Lipstick collection.
It uses a combination of AR technology and in-store activity, which is said to provide a 360° beauty experience.
Euromonitor concluded that companies “must” continue to reinvent their image in order to meet consumer needs and that only the most disruptive brands will survive the bleak high street backdrop.
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