Retail Technology News: The Future is Now

As I reflect on the latest retail technology news, I am struck by the sheer pace of innovation in this space. From augmented reality to robotics, mobile apps, and more, retailers are leveraging technology to stay ahead of the curve. In this article, I’ll delve into the most noteworthy and innovative technology stories from May, highlighting the trends that are shaping the future of retail.

Walmart Expands InHome Delivery

Walmart’s InHome online delivery service, which brings food directly into customers’ homes, is now available to 10 million additional households across the United States. This move marks a significant expansion of the service, which is poised to revolutionize the way we shop for groceries.

Walmart’s InHome delivery service is changing the game

Global E-commerce to Reach $7 Trillion by 2028

According to a recent report by Forrester, global online retail sales will grow to $6.8 trillion by 2028, representing an 8.9% compound annual growth rate. This staggering figure underscores the rapid shift towards online shopping and the need for retailers to adapt to this new reality.

Macy’s Enables Virtual AR Try-On

Macy’s has taken the concept of try-before-you-buy to the next level with its AR-enabled mirror installed in the Disney Princess Shop at its Herald Square flagship store. This innovative technology allows customers to virtually try on digital Disney dresses, providing an immersive and engaging shopping experience.

Macy’s AR-enabled mirror is a game-changer for retail

Michaels Turns Physical Stores into Omnichannel Supply Chain Hubs

Michaels, the specialty arts and crafts retailer, is leveraging its brick-and-mortar stores to fill digital orders. By using the cloud-based Manhattan Associates Active Omni unified commerce platform, Michaels is able to provide online shoppers with near real-time fulfillment.

Tractor Supply’s New DC Serves as Testing Ground for Robotics

Tractor Supply Company has opened its 10th and largest distribution center yet, which will serve as a testing facility for robotics designed to reduce costs and increase productivity. This move marks a significant investment in automation and is likely to have far-reaching implications for the retail industry.

Tractor Supply’s new DC is a hub for innovation

eBay Streamlines Clothing Resale with Connected Labels

eBay is rolling out a new click-to-resell feature for select apparel products, making it easier for users to list their clothing on the platform. This move is likely to have a significant impact on the resale market and could potentially disrupt traditional retail models.

Best Buy Revamps Consumer App with AI, Video

Best Buy Co. Inc. is rolling out a number of new features for its consumer app, including an AI-powered home screen that delivers a personalized shopping experience based on consumer interests and shopping behavior.

Wendy’s Tweaks McDonald’s with Development of New Promotional Site

Wendy’s has launched WendysNuggsParty.com, a website that directs customers to their closest participating Wendy’s restaurant serving up its Nuggs Party Pack meal. This move is a clever response to McDonald’s marketing efforts and highlights the ongoing battle for fast food supremacy.

Wendy’s Nuggs Party Pack is a game-changer for fast food

Amazon Debuts First-Ever Seasonal Book Promotion

Amazon has launched its inaugural Amazon Book Sale, a dedicated page on its e-commerce site that showcases a curated selection of books for the summer reading season. This move marks a significant departure from Amazon’s usual sales tactics and is likely to have a significant impact on the publishing industry.

TikTok Sues U.S. Government over Possible Ban

TikTok has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government over a provision in a foreign aid bill that requires its Chinese owner, ByteDance, to divest its U.S. TikTok operation in 270 days or face a ban. This move highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. government and Chinese tech companies.