The world is becoming increasingly digitally interconnected, transforming retail like never before. Digital retail technologies (RetailTech) are driving this change – from the facility management of stores to customer interaction. Artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and augmented reality (AR) are no longer just Web 2.0 terms – they are also making their way into retail! So, what does the future of this industry look like?
Sescom, as a modern technical facility management service provider, is particularly active in the retail sector and analyzes trends to offer its partners the best and most future-proof solutions. With our expertise in technology, digitalization, and product development, we are always one step ahead of the future and offer insights into industry-changing trends up to 2030 and beyond.
In this blog, we present the 7 most important retail technology trends in 2025 that will change the future of modern retail – from the personalization of the shopping experience through augmented reality and the use of robotics in changing processes to the integration of IoT for a seamless customer journey.
These 7 trends in retail technologies will significantly influence how retailers approach their customers in the digital age.
1. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning in Retail
The implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) has rapidly advanced in every industry in recent years, including retail.
Retail has long served as a testing ground for modern and future-proof solutions, especially in online sales. Amazon and the integration of Guided Selling, the automated project recommendations for buyers, are just one example among many.
“Personalized product suggestions are AI-driven and account for 35% of purchases according to internal reports.”
A machine learning algorithm recommends related products to customers based on their purchase history, location, and the preferences of similar customers, leading to faster purchasing decisions and higher sales.
A perfectly optimized algorithm can thus not only influence the product range and pricing but also drive innovation and optimize inventory and supply chains.
2. Subscriptions & Personalized Services as a Retail Trend
Customers want their shopping experience to be as convenient, as fast, and as personalized as possible. This is where the subscription model comes into play as a retail trend.
“According to a survey by Deloitte and Zuora, the average monthly budget for a retail subscription in Europe is €80.30 for electronics, €78.30 for groceries, and €55.70 for beauty and cosmetics products.”
This shows the advantage of subscriptions as a retail trend to consolidate recurring revenue streams.
In addition to subscriptions, payment processing is, of course, also of great importance. 89% of retailers stated that providing multiple digital payment options contributes to customer loyalty and thus leads to more sales.
3. Data Analysis and Data Science in Retail
To fully exploit the possibilities of retail technologies, retailers must use digital systems for data analysis. Challenges here include avoiding fragmented data from different sources, modernizing outdated infrastructures, and breaking down data silos for the shared use of data.
An integration of comprehensive systems that collect data across the entire store and connect online and offline businesses offers retailers the opportunity to stay one step ahead of the competition.
“Concrete data delivers concrete results. These contribute to personalization for the customer experience, improve pricing, and optimize processes in stores and in the warehouse.”
Cloud-based data integration solutions, ERP systems, and e-commerce integration software are available to retailers for this purpose, enabling them to scientifically evaluate data and make informed decisions.
4. Augmented Reality & Virtual Reality as a Retail Trend
Augmented Reality (AR) has also established itself in retail in recent years. A study by TCS shows that 60% of millennials tend to spend more money when retailers offer virtual fitting rooms or virtual staging options.
In this context, L’Oreal already offers AR apps where customers can virtually try out new make-up looks. H&M is testing smart mirrors for virtual try-ons and styling in its stores.
“Statistics underscore the benefits of AR. Over 50% of buyers confirm increased confidence in the quality of a product through an AR experience. Retail companies that integrate AR into their customer journey can benefit from this.”
This retail technology trend shows how virtual and augmented reality are opening up new sales and revenue channels. With the growing VR and AR user base, retailers can leverage immersive technologies to expand their customer reach, boost online sales, and ensure steady business expansion.
5. Robotics and Automation as a Retail Trend
Another retail technology trend that retailers should keep an eye on is automation. Especially in areas where minimal human involvement is required, the use of technology and robotics offers the opportunity to complete repetitive tasks faster.
“Sescom offers, among other things, state-of-the-art RFID technology, with which the inventory of warehouse stock and goods in the store can be carried out in no time at all. The smart RFID scanners read hundreds of products in seconds, thus saving massive amounts of time and personnel costs.”
According to a McKinsey study, 52% of activities in retail can be automated using modern retail technologies. This not only reduces human error but also improves service speed and increases employee efficiency.
Employees are then only used in areas where they can contribute their expertise, while smaller tasks are handed over to robots or technologies.
6. The IoT in Retail Technology
The Internet of Things (IoT) also plays an important role in retail technology. It creates a connection between everyday objects and the internet, thus creating a network of smart devices that communicate with each other via the internet to pass on important data.
This includes, for example, Sescom’s HVAC systems, which can be remotely controlled and checked for problems, as well as the installation of numerous IT systems in a store.
“This makes it possible to create personalized and interactive customer experiences. Shelves equipped with sensors collect data on customer behavior and enable tailored recommendations, promotions, and discounts in both offline and online shops.”
By integrating the IoT in retail, retailers can increase customer loyalty and promote long-term loyalty. In addition, IoT-based security systems can increase store security, prevent theft, and ensure the safety of employees and visitors.
7. Smart Integration Between Physical Retail & E-commerce
The last retail technology trend is the integration between physical retail locations and e-commerce. Retailers are increasingly trying to combine digital and physical shopping experiences, such as ordering goods via the H&M online shop but picking them up and trying them on locally.
This retail trend is about improving the in-store shopping experience through the use of technology. This includes, as already mentioned, the use of AR try-ons, personalized product suggestions, or the connection between online and offline purchases.
By integrating the digital and physical worlds, retailers can create a seamless experience for their customers, which contributes to long-term customer loyalty.
Sescom Technology for Modern Building Management
In an era where consumers demand flexibility, personalization, and speed, it is essential for retailers to leverage retail trends to offer their customers the best possible outcome.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning, subscriptions and personalization, augmented reality and robotics, the Internet of Things, and a smart connection between in-store retail and e-commerce all contribute to this.
Learn more about how Sescom can support you in the digitalization of retail! We integrate, among other things, smart POS systems, self-service checkouts, RFID tags, CCTV, HVAC systems, as well as building management and energy management systems.
If you’re looking for a technical facility management partner to provide high-quality, reliable support for your stores across Europe, look no further! We offer a full range of services, from HVAC installations to store openings and closures, strip-outs, refits, pop-up stores, maintenance, RFID implementation, and more.
Contact us at: sescom@sescom.eu.
