Caleb Hampton

We published a #RetailTech report today titled, "RFID Is the Technology That Keeps on Giving to Retailers (and Associates and Consumers)." It has three main points: 1. RFID-Driven Inventory Accuracy Opens the Door to a Slew of Other Benefits for Retailers 2. RFID Can Improve the Associate Experience 3. RFID Enables the Services that Make Customers Happy The report also discusses implications for retailers, brands and technology vendors. https://lnkd.in/eCAPNu5t Take a look here: https://lnkd.in/eCAPNu5t #rfid #retailtechnology

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Highlights from last week's NYC #RetailSafari -- focus was the intersection of #technology, #customers, and #operations, primarily in specialty apparel and fashion. Key themes: 1. Technology goes backstage – Brand new formats / concepts at H&M, Banana Republic, Zara, AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC., lululemon, and J.Crew and none come across as tech-forward w/ regard to customers. On the other hand, associates were all mobile enabled and doing most of their work leveraging phones / tablets. 2. Old tech; new tricks – Widespread use of #RFID and #QR codes (both generally on the price ticket), with a mix of internal and external use cases -- self-checkout, RFID-assisted full-service checkout, inventory counts, inventory finding, #BOPIS, etc. 3. Apps are an entry point – #Retailers without a clienteling / selling culture are using apps to drive customer capture. #Lulu uses app-based membership to enable exchanges on sale items; UNIQLO offers special discounts to app members. 4. Unified is still a unicorn – Despite a decade of focus on #omnichannel and unified commerce, many gaps exist. Very few #retail apps recognize when you’re in store, send a notification, and/or assist in the shopping experience. Many didn’t even have their newest stores listed as an option for #BOPIS (despite in-store signage).  5. Video is the new visual – ultra-large format (8-10ft x 12-16ft) video screens were a common feature of many new stores, and really helped to bring the brand lifestyle to life.  6. It’s hard to (re)teach people how to shop – Across all stores except Bonobos, Glossier, Inc., and Reformation, the shopping process is the same as it’s been for the past 50+ years. The ones that don't are focused on a niche customer with a unique product offering. IMO, the product is the driver and consumers "accept" the experience. 7. The "future" is not here yet, but you can start to see the shape of it – Demoing the Apple #VisionPro, we could think of multiple use cases (mostly internal / operational), and while it’s too early (and too expensive) to fully commit, it’s certainly worth considering a pilot as part of an #innovation lab. It's also worth noting there was no apparent use of #AI by customers or associates. Curious to hear comments, feedback from other markets. #ibmretail

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A post-merger integration demands strategic coordination and meticulous planning, but an Integration Management Office can help! In this eBook, we share #CPG industry guidance for standing up an #IMO. https://lnkd.in/exePn2Nn

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Good read for points to consider. I would add a few more. On data, capture the right level of detail that allows observable corrections to improve the scorecards. Get agreement from all stakeholders on the measurement and the details behind the measurement. I remember a previous role where it took several months for accounting and merchandising to agree on the inputs for the margin calculation. Do not underestimate the need for change management. You create a scorecard to ensure success. It will flush issues that require change in the retailer and supplier networks. Leaders must be expect and support those changes. Some of those changes will be uncomfortable and may strike close to home.

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Why should retailers embrace a Distributed Order Management System (DOMS) for their retail business in 2024? As consumer behaviors shift, relying solely on physical storefronts is no longer enough. Enter Distributed Order Management Systems (DOMS), the ultimate tool for seamless operations across multiple channels. A DOMS centralizes order management, providing real-time inventory visibility and multiple fulfillment options like BOPIS and Ship from Store. This ensures seamless operations, reduces costs, and boosts customer satisfaction. Discover in HotWax Commerce's blog post, how a Distributed Order Management System can revolutionize your retail business in 2024. https://hubs.la/Q02zfX7D0 #ShoppingandtheRetailIndustry #eCommerce #Retail #Omnichannel #OrderManagementSystem

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In today's retail, the concept of omnichannel shopping reigns supreme, as consumers navigate seamlessly between online and brick-and-mortar experiences. While retail giants effortlessly handle thousands of daily orders, smaller enterprises face unique challenges in managing their operations. Enter the Omnichannel Order Management System (OMS), a comprehensive solution designed to address these pain points. By offering scalability and cost-efficiency, an OMS ensures a smooth retail experience for businesses of all sizes. With features such as real-time inventory tracking and premium customer service, an OMS emerges as a vital tool for retailers seeking to expand their presence today's competitive market. Ready to take your business to new heights? Explore our blog and uncover the impact of Omnichannel OMS for small and mid-sized retailers. https://hubs.la/Q02zR1N40 #ShoppingandtheRetailIndustry #eCommerce #Retail #Omnichannel #OrderManagementSystem

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Work from home or return to the office? It's a discussion that continues to rage on, with staunch supporters on both sides of the argument and many factors to consider. But there remains no clear "right" answer. This week on the Retail Transformation Show podcast, I'm exploring the Great Workplace Debate, including: 🏠 The pros and cons of both working from home and office-based work. 🏢 The key considerations when it comes to leading transformation from the office vs remotely. 🏠 Why we must return to the company purpose and values. 🏢 And finally - the crucial factors that a retailer's office-based teams cannot forget. Check out episode 297 on your usual podcast app - just search for the Retail Transformation Show. I'd love to hear your thoughts: There are so many sides to this decision.... what do you think is the top consideration to factor in? #retail #retailtransformation #wfh #rto

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Parallel shifts in retail commerce over recent years have been driven by global events and the rapid emergence of technology that is transforming the way retailers operate and customers shop. But in a world of generative artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles and automated fulfillment systems, staying ahead of change is more complicated than ever. #retailtech #omnichannelretail

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While #SASInnovate is coming to a close, there is still so much to look forward to. Thanks Mary Osborne and Shadi Shahin for giving us a sneak peek at our new #AI Assistant and #DigitalTwin capabilities. What a compelling scenario to address and mitigate #supplychain disruptions. Stay tuned! #IntelligentPlanning #SAS #Innovation #retail #CPG

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Hello Retail Friends,   I cannot stress enough how important fresh products are to grocery retailers. When it comes to inventory planning, “point solutions” that lack end-to-end integration and only address store-level planning simply are not enough!   Retailers need proven, multi-echelon planning solutions that extend beyond the store - unifying, automating, and optimizing planning in stores, DCs, and omnichannel. This is the only way to get crucial visibility and insight across the end-to-end value chain.   https://lnkd.in/ej53RsFV #supplychain #grocery #freshproduce How to improve retail fresh food inventory management | RELEX Solutions Tackle fresh food inventory management challenges head-on with the right strategies and robust planning software. www.relexsolutions.comhas context menuCompose

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Summer reading: Leaders Leap Excited to share the new must-read book by top global retail influencer and strategist Steve Dennis. In today's fast-paced business landscape, transformation is crucial, and Steve's book emphasizes aiming high and moving swiftly to avoid the risk of irrelevancy. "Leaders Leap" offers valuable insights on the magnitude and speed of transformation required for sustained competitive advantage, and the mindset that leaders and their teams need to have to drive the transformation. Dive into this very well-written and empowering read to drive bold and sustainable changes in your company. #retail #ceos #transformation #disruption #growth #risk

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Great article by McKinsey & Company! Adding my two cents, inorder to thrive in this challenging landscape, CPG/FMCG companies must break down data silos and foster a collaborative, data-driven culture. Investing in integrated data platforms and advanced analytics will unlock actionable insights, fueling innovation and growth. #CPG #FMCG #DataDriven #Innovation #Analytics https://lnkd.in/gBCgtgwi

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Dear Retail Friends,   If you’re a wholesaler, access to data from suppliers and retail customers is critical in enabling optimal service levels with minimal inventory. But getting that data, and acting upon it, can be challenging.   While there are many hurdles to this kind of collaboration, it can be done. And the benefits are numerous – not just for wholesalers, but their suppliers and retail customers as well.   https://lnkd.in/dbxub36v   #supplychain #supplychainoptimization #wholesaledistribution The future of wholesale supply chain collaboration | RELEX Solutions Unlock insights on boosting wholesale collaboration for supply chain efficiency and profit in this expert interview.

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In today's retail landscape, the fusion of online and brick-and-mortar shopping experiences has become the norm. Customers can seamlessly choose between digital platforms and physical stores, demanding convenience and efficiency at every turn. However, for smaller retail players, navigating this omnichannel terrain poses unique challenges. Enter the Omnichannel Order Management System (OMS) – a solution for businesses of all sizes that is customized to streamline operations and ensure a seamless retail journey from click to doorstep. Whether you're a growing mid-sized enterprise, the benefits of an OMS are undeniable; it offers scalability, cost-efficiency, and most importantly, a competitive edge in today's retail. With an OMS in place, retailers can effortlessly track inventory in real-time and deliver premium customer experiences at every touchpoint. Ready to revolutionize your retail game? Dive into HotWax Commerce's blog and discover how Omnichannel OMS can elevate your business to new heights. https://hubs.la/Q02wH2WH0 #ShoppingandtheRetailIndustry #eCommerce #Retail #Omnichannel #OrderManagementSystem

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In today's retail landscape, the fusion of online and brick-and-mortar shopping experiences has become the norm. Customers can seamlessly choose between digital platforms and physical stores, demanding convenience and efficiency at every turn. However, for smaller retail players, navigating this omnichannel terrain poses unique challenges. Enter the Omnichannel Order Management System (OMS) – a solution for businesses of all sizes that is customized to streamline operations and ensure a seamless retail journey from click to doorstep. Whether you're a growing mid-sized enterprise, the benefits of an OMS are undeniable; it offers scalability, cost-efficiency, and most importantly, a competitive edge in today's retail. With an OMS in place, retailers can effortlessly track inventory in real-time and deliver premium customer experiences at every touchpoint. Ready to revolutionize your retail game? Dive into HotWax Commerce's blog and discover how Omnichannel OMS can elevate your business to new heights. https://hubs.la/Q02z4jyG0 #ShoppingadntheRetailIndustry #eCommerce #Retail #Omnichannel #OrderManagementSystem

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Interesting article on how fashion shoppers are shifting towards digital commerce, leading to the decline of brick and mortar stores. While I still prefer shopping in stores to touch and try on clothing, it's important to acknowledge this trend shift. I'm curious to know how different regions of the world compare in this particular trend. Check out the article for more insights: https://lnkd.in/d4trqkwc

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