The retail industry has faced unprecedented disruptions in 2020. Nonessential retailers have been forced to adjust to public health-related regulations and restrictions as the pandemic has worn on, leading them to pivot business models or even close. While essential retailers have been able to maintain their in-store experiences, they’ve also been faced with supply chain and inventory challenges throughout the global health crisis.
These near-constant adjustments have pushed retailers to rely on technology more than ever before, and organizations have recognized the crucial role that tech will play moving forward.
While not all of the trends adopted in 2020 will last, some of them are likely to shape the industry for years to come. These are the retail tech trends to watch for in 2021 and beyond.
1. BOPIS Is Here to Stay
Buy online, pickup in-store (known as BOPIS) has been a critical way for many stores to continue doing business. With social distancing restrictions limiting the number of people allowed in stores at one time, a growing number of customers have adopted BOPIS as their preferred form of shopping since it doesn’t require waiting for shipping.