Omnichannel is seen as the future of retailing

The majority of European retailers expect a hybrid model of online and offline offerings in the shops of the future. This was stated by 71 percent of the respondents to the Scandit study "The Future of Store Operations". The biggest challenge cited by 61 percent was the unique position vis-à-vis the competition. 37 percent believe that omnichannel approaches should focus on improving the customer experience. The smart data capture solutions provider surveyed retailers from the DIY, grocery, sports and consumer electronics sectors.

Face-to-face contact between staff and customers is seen as crucial by all salespeople surveyed. 14 percent believe that the future of the physical shop will be an interactive, brand-focused hub that supports an e-commerce offering.