Our Retail Inspiration Day was a day full of inspiration and insight into the latest trends and technologies within the industry. Mark Aerts, Commercial Director at VanRoey, was allowed to open the day with a warm welcome to the 30 or so retailers in the room.
Digital challenges for Retailers
Retail faces many digital challenges. Companies that turn these challenges into concrete opportunities and embrace the latest technologies have a significant advantage over competing peers.
Some of the discussed challenges:
- "By 2022, retail was the fifth most targeted industry by cybercriminals" - RetailDetail
- "90% of customers leave if not presented with personalised content" - CM.com
- "In 2025, half of customers will do truly omnichannel shopping" - Ton van Veen, CEO Jumbo
Artificial Intelligence in Retail
After a general introduction and a round of who-is-who took Renout van Hove (founder of GrowthAgent) took us into the world of 'Artificial Intelligence in Retail'. Renout elaborated on the role of AI in the retail sector. We learned that AI can help personalise the customer experience and optimise inventory management. AI can also provide valuable insights into customer behaviour, which can lead to more effective marketing strategies.
| Do's | Don'ts |
| ✓ Implement AI for personalised customer experiences | ✗ Deploying AI without a clear strategy |
| ✓ Use AI for efficient inventory management | ✗ Neglect of data privacy when using AI |
Avigilon Alta: AI Camera Security for Retail
Another important aspect highlighted was the application of AI in security solutions. Bart Vanden Wyngaerd from Avigilon Alta explained how AI camera solutions can contribute to security and efficiency in the retail sector. These advanced cameras can automatically detect and report suspicious activity, significantly reducing the response time of security personnel.
Bart showed an inspiring demo that made mouths drop open. "The way AI camera solutions are providing enhanced security for retailers today is unprecedented!" More info on this very interesting security section can be found at this page.
Wi-Fi in warehouses: Do's & don'ts
Networking, alongside cybersecurity, is one of the biggest hatches that VanRoey handles. Where retailers often have to deal with multiple branches, headquarters and different warehouses, a smart and secure network infrastructure is of enormous importance. During the Retail Inspiration Day, network specialists Thomas Willems and Filip Boute focus on best practices. For example the story of Schoenen Torfs - with Raf De Leu, IT Manager at Schoenen Torfs in the audience - was discussed.
| Do's | Don'ts |
| ✓ Regular network analysis | ✗ Placement near large metal objects |
| ✓ Use of advanced technologies | ✗ Withholding on security protocols |
| ✓ Continuous management & monitoring | ✗ Outdated technology |
How to connect shops to head office (and warehouse)
In addition, the aspect of connecting multiple shops with head office and warehouse. Here, ensuring secure and efficient network connectivity is equally crucial. VanRoey cites the differences between the old way of working (via MPLS) and how they are proceeding today with SD-WAN for enhanced connectivity.
The main 'don'ts': neglecting network security and using outdated networking technologies. For this part, they are working closely with partner Ruckus Networks.
Technology and Omnichannel experience
The role of technology in an Omnichannel experience was also discussed in detail. Experts shared insights on how technology can help create a seamless and integrated shopping experience for customers. Dennis Oudijn from Valk Solutions explained how their solutions can support retailers in achieving an effective omnichannel strategy. Valk Solutions offers integrated software that ensures a seamless connection between online and offline sales channels, enabling retailers to provide a consistent and personalised customer experience across all touchpoints.
| Do's | Don'ts |
| ✓ Invest in technology that supports omnichannel experience | ✗ Lack of integration between online and offline channels |
| ✓ Ensure a consistent customer experience across all channels | ✗ Neglect of customer feedback and experience |
| ✓ Implement solutions like Valk Solutions' for integrated omnichannel experiences | ✗ Ignore the need for continuous adaptation and improvement in technology implementations |
The added value on the Shopping Experience is, of course, beyond dispute!
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The Retail Inspiration Day 2023 highlighted valuable insights and practical tips on the latest trends and technologies in the retail sector. Presentations by experts in the field of AI, such as Avigilon Alta's AI camera solutions and Valk Solutions' technology solutions for an omnichannel experience, provided attendees with concrete tools to strengthen the positioning and infrastructure of retail organisations.
It is crucial for retailers to stay up-to-date with the latest technological developments and innovations to maintain competitive advantage and grow in the dynamic retail market.
Need to call on our expertise?
Like many other Belgian retailers, would you like to call on our network and cybersecurity expertise? Let us know!
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