Someone delivering a package

2021 Zebra Global Shopper study

The Retail Imperative: Empower associates, exceed expectations & create loyal customers

Change is the only constant, and retail has seen plenty of it. The COVID-19 pandemic forced this already fast-moving sector to evolve at an unprecedented pace. In order to overcome challenges, meet consumer demand and help support a new world. The adversity accelerated innovation, growth, new experiences and faster fulfilment. It accentuated the value of the industry. As well as the critical role store associates play in keeping shelves stocked. In addition to assisting customers and cultivating a safe shopping experience.

Many retailers have had to quickly adjust. Especially those deemed essential. In order to meet sky-rocketing customer demands and increased expectations to deliver a better shopping experience. Customers are still craving the essentials. Speed, convenience and now safety. With frictionless checkouts, accurate pricing, item availability and blended in-store and online experiences.

It’s become clear that retailers must embrace a digital mindset to deliver the essentials and meet customers where, when and how they shop. Retailers are equipping associates with technology that gives them inventory visibility, insightful analytics and store layouts. These tools enable them to deliver better experiences, create a loyal customer base and solidify their standing, and their future, in the industry.

Retailers accelerate tech investment and implementation plans

  • 61% of retail executives say the pandemic accelerated technology investment plans.
  • 77% say the pandemic accelerated implementation plans for devices and solutions.
  • 61% of associates view their employer more positively for providing them with mobile devices and technology +10pp YoY (+pp denotes the year-over-year (YoY) percentage point increase).

Zebra’s 13th 2021 Global Shopper Study surveyed over 5,000 global shoppers, store associates and retail executives to gauge the attitudes, opinions and expectations of retail now. The results, summarised in a two-part series, are essential reading for industry leaders seeking actionable insights to serve today’s tech-savvy and safety-conscious shoppers.

Download Global Shopper Study Part 1.

Download Global Shopper Study Part 2.

Related Partner News

TSC Auto ID launches pocket-sized, rugged printer to overcome common industry challenges

TSC Auto ID’s new 3-inch mobile printer, the RE310, promises rapid and multiple charging options, effortless connectivity and hassle-free integration, to enable uninterrupted, on-the-go label printing across diverse applications.

The new mobile device is very versatile and suited to many tasks, including shelf labelling in retail, receipts and labels in warehouse and logistics operations, fast […]

Read more
A worker standing by a barcode printer in a warehouse

Hidden obstacles to warehouse efficiency: insights from Brother and Renovotec

With demand for e-commerce showing no signs of slowing down, and large warehouse rent costs rising by an average of 5% year on year*, the need for warehouse efficiency has reached a critical point in recent years.

Businesses have naturally turned to technology to streamline processes and cut costs.

Read more

Datalogic Memor 12 Enterprise-Grade Power in a Pocket-Sized Design

The Memor 12-17 family is the perfect solution for customers looking for devices to streamline their front-facing applications in transportation and logistics, retail and healthcare.

Boasting a sleek and ultra-thin form factor, the Memor 12-17 offers all that is needed for large and small enterprises: from our latest scanning and payment innovations to the best […]

Read more