According to information released by the Stone Retail Index (IVS), Brazilian retail sales showed a decline of 3,5% in December 2024. For this year, XP Investimentos specialists project a timid recovery of the segment, with an increase of about 2%. In light of this context, the commercial areas position themselves open to innovation as a way to adapt to challenges and identify opportunities with the intention of not only attracting more consumers, but also enhance the results for the entire chain involved.
For Elton Matos, co-founder and CEO of Airlocker, pioneering company of fully self-managing smart lockers, retail is in a moment of revolution. We are experiencing a moment of transformation in the sector. Although the challenges are evident, they also bring with them the opportunity to rethink strategies. We observe that this reinvention tends to be guided by an increasingly innovative mindset. The key thought for this period will be to "think outside the box" to stand out, to enchant, and, as a consequence generate recurrence, affirms the executive.
Thinking about the commerce of the future, Matos listed the solutions that will stand out in this new phase of retail, check below
Smart cabinets
The smart lockers, how they are usually known, bring assertiveness to the logistics of deliveries and returns. These innovations function as autonomous withdrawal points and can be used in the mediation between the retailer and the end consumer, allowing purchases to be picked up at the most convenient time, without queues or delays, providing a differentiated shopping experience, says the specialist.
Data analysis
A study conducted by the consulting firm IDC identified that 90% of Brazilian companies invest in data and analytics tools to predict trends and consumption patterns. "In this scenario, innovations such as Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) stand out as they operate in the area of predictive information analysis, what does an optimization of inventory management and even the layout of stores mean. Furthermore, they are resources that enable more personalized marketing campaigns, increasing the chances of winning over the consumer, explain the CEO.
Just Walk Out
The dynamics of "Just Leave", in free translation from English, allows commercial environments to operate without the need for a cash register for payments. The main idea of the concept is the elimination of payment queues, creating a fast and seamless shopping experience, going against the current preferences of consumers. In practice, the system that is already implemented in some supermarkets in the United States uses a series of suspended cameras and pressure-sensitive shelves to automatically detect what customers put in their carts. The consumer can also choose to scan the products via the app, that is linked to a credit or debit card. Upon leaving the establishment, will be charged automatically and will receive a digital receipt, reveals Matos.
circular strategies
Driven by consumers' desire to save and adopt more sustainable practices, circularity will be one of the central themes throughout this year. This sustainable movement in commerce has been growing mainly due to younger generations, that prioritize brands with ecological initiatives. Whether in the production chain or in the store structure, як наприклад, the use of solar panels, the resource has the potential to strengthen public loyalty, and, consequently increase profit margins, in addition to positively impacting environmental causes, finalizes the specialist.
