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#TBT: Service Merchandise Was the OG Multi-Channel Shopping Experience

Retail TouchPoints

I have very vivid memories about Service Merchandise , a now-defunct business with a unique ordering process focused on catalog inventory. Service Merchandise was a bit more fun than today’s similar IKEA shopping experience because it carried more than mediocre DIY housewares and furniture. Don’t remember it?

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5G in Retail: Creating the WOW factor

Retail TouchPoints

Imagine you pick up all the things you need for your farm, and then they tell you that they currently cannot process credit cards. 5G can also connect mobile point-of-sale (POS) terminals , self-service kiosks, scan-and-go checkouts and other forms of frictionless shopping with ease. Tractor Supply Co. , You get the drift.

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The Rise of Micro Markets in Airports

Retail TouchPoints

This, combined with workforce shortages, has caused airports to move more toward automation, with self-service check-in kiosks, baggage drops and mini stores. According to SITA, by 2024 88% of airports are expected to be equipped with check-in kiosks and 59% will have automated border control.