Dec 4, 2024

Jess Grisolia of Scandit envisions a future where AI-powered, multi-modal data capture revolutionises the retail experience. Share The retail industry is embracing a digital transformation, marked by the growing adoption of QR codes and smart data capture technologies. / Credit: Roman Zaiets via Shutterstock The retail landscape is undergoing a digital transformation, with QR codes emerging as a powerful alternative to traditional barcodes. Jess Grisolia, Industry Solutions Director for Retail at Scandit, highlights this shift: “QR codes provide retailers with much more than just a product identifier. They encode additional data like inventory information, supply chain details, and promotional content.” Go deeper with GlobalData This expanded functionality makes them a valuable tool for enhancing inventory management and customer engagement. Traditional barcodes, such as UPCs, have long dominated checkout processes due to their simplicity. However, as Grisolia explains, QR codes’ ability to carry more information is driving their adoption in broader retail contexts. “While traditional barcodes suffice for basic tasks, QR codes allow for richer interactions, such as offering promotional discounts or displaying product reviews directly to the customer.” This added capability aligns with retailers’ increasing focus on personalisation and efficiency. How well do you really know your competitors? Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge. Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form By GlobalData Submit Tick here to opt out of curated industry news, reports, and event updates from Retail Insight Network. Submit and download Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address. Smart data capture revolutionises retail operations Beyond QR codes, smart data capture technologies are streamlining operations and elevating customer experiences. Scandit’s solutions allow retailers to use smartphones or other smart devices to scan not only barcodes but also objects, text, and QR codes, eliminating the need for specialised equipment. “This shift reduces costs while enhancing workflows, enabling real-time insights for inventory checks, stock replenishment, and order picking,” says Grisolia. Retailers are also integrating Scandit’s technology into mobile apps, enabling self-scanning. “Customers can scan items, compare prices, and complete transactions independently,” Grisolia explains. These innovations mimic the convenience of e-commerce, helping brick-and-mortar stores stay competitive. Scandit’s augmented reality (AR) features further enhance the experience, overlaying information like personalised promotions to assist shoppers. These technologies are already being implemented by leading retailers, transforming the in-store experience. From reducing queue times to improving stock management, smart data capture delivers measurable benefits such as cost savings and increased operational efficiency. The future: multi-modal and AI-driven data capture Looking ahead, Grisolia envisions a retail world where multi-modal data capture takes centre stage. “Future solutions will integrate data from QR codes, RFID, text, and AI-powered object recognition to provide a comprehensive understanding of store environments,” she predicts. One emerging application is AI-driven shelf intelligence, which monitors stock levels and compliance with planograms. This technology reduces manual labour, allowing store associates to focus on customer interactions. Such advancements promise to create a seamless and frictionless shopping experience. As Grisolia emphasises, “The future of retail lies in integrating various data sources to enhance store operations and deliver a personalised customer journey.” By embracing QR codes and leveraging smart data capture, retailers can unlock new opportunities for efficiency and engagement, paving the way for a more dynamic and responsive retail environment. Sign up for our daily news round-up! Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights.