Despite its apparent familiarity, going shopping no longer means the same as just five years ago. Physical stores, far from being in decline, are evolving at high speed driven by technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) or visual intelligence. According to the latest national accounting data published by the INE, trade already represents 12.5 % of GDP at basic prices in Spain, with retail trade exceeding 5 %. An economic weight that justifies the growing attention of technological actors.
UST, a leading company in digital transformation, has analyzed the impact of this technological revolution on the Spanish retail. The main conclusion: the “connected retail experience” is no longer a promise, but a reality in full deployment.
For years, the integration of new technologies in the retail was limited by its complexity and cost. However, that has changed. “Technological development has democratized access to tools that were only available to large corporations. However, so that an artificial intelligence solution is really viable, it must be backed by a Business Case Solid and a clear investment return, ”says Carlos Alonso, Sales Retail Director, Manufacturing, Healthcare & Utilities Spain and Latam in UST.
The integration of visual intelligence and intelligent sensors redefines the experience of physical and online purchase
Advances in chips design and sensor lowering have allowed many chains to introduce intelligent solutions in their stores. The current AI can analyze large volumes of real -time data to offer personalized recommendations, detect errors or even automate operational decisions.
Visual intelligence: see to understand … and sell more
One of the pillars of this transformation is visual intelligence, which turns images captured by cameras or sensors into useful data for the business. From validating that product images in an online store coincide with the real article, to identify bottlenecks in passage areas or analyze emotions on customer faces, their applications are multiple.
Carlos Alonso recalls an especially striking case: “One of our customers in the retail sector had a serious problem with product images in its online store, which received more than 400,000 visits a day. For human errors or configuration failures, sometimes incorrect images were shown, which made many users abandon the purchase. This translated into important economic losses, estimated between 93 and 116 million euros a year. Image validation tool.
IoT in Store: From the smart inventory to energy efficiency
In parallel, the Internet of things is connecting shelves, corridors, warehouses and energy systems. The sensor network allows to automate inventory management, detect low levels of products or adjust lighting and air conditioning based on the real occupation of the premises.
Among the most prominent applications:
- Intelligent inventory managementwith sensors that track products in real time.
- Smart shelvesthat automatically alert replacement staff.
- Energy optimizationby connected environmental sensors.
- Loss preventionwith cameras capable of detecting suspicious behaviors.
From point of sale to the connection point
The convergence between the physical and digital world not only improves the client’s experience, but completely redefines the store concept. The consumer seeks immediacy, customization and efficiency. And the connected store – dated by data and automatisms – is today the only environment capable of offering it.
For UST experts, success does not lie only to adopt technology, but in doing so with strategy. “Technology has to be at the service of the business and the client, not vice versa. Only in this way it becomes a true transformation engine,” concludes Alonso.
