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By Matthew Guiste | Sept 24, 2025
Intelligent Operations Help Retailers Be Better Every Day
With consumer expectations shifting, retailers face a turning point. The urgent need for greater efficiency and adaptability means retailers must evolve and get better every day at improving customer satisfaction and meeting increased demands. The research we recently unveiled with Oxford Economics sheds light on how intelligent operations can transform the retail industry.
By embracing technologies that provide real-time insights, foster connected collaboration, and integrate automation, retailers can adapt a mindset of continuous improvement, build sustainable growth and remain competitive in an ever-changing landscape.
Intelligent Operations Pave the Way Forward
Operational intelligence has become a critical element for retailers seeking to thrive. The study highlights that organizations investing in intelligent operations, powered by AI, automation, and advanced data analytics, achieve significant gains in profitability, customer satisfaction, and employee productivity. For example, businesses that introduced meaningful workflow improvements experienced an average of 1.8% higher revenue growth and 1.5% higher profitability over the past year.
The concept of "intelligent operations" represents a shift away from outdated workflows and isolated systems. It involves creating environments where data flows seamlessly, enabling informed decisions with agility and precision. Tools such as RFID readers, mobile computers, and predictive analytics software are proving essential for optimizing inventory management, which remains a top priority for 39% of retailers surveyed.
Combine Technology and Human Expertise
The study emphasizes the importance of blending technological advancements with the expertise of frontline workers. Automation tools such as AI-driven demand forecasting and inventory optimization reduce repetitive tasks, enabling employees to focus more on customer engagement. This approach enhances operational efficiency and supports employee satisfaction, which is a vital factor in retaining skilled staff in today’s competitive labor market.
For example, the integration of mobile devices and AI allows workers to access real-time inventory data, improving both speed and accuracy. One supply chain leader noted how equipping employees with tablets and advanced software transformed their operations, stating, "The best thing that happened for us...is that we upgraded the technology and put it in the hands of actual associates."
Data, the Foundation of Retail Transformation
Data lies at the heart of intelligent operations. However, the study reveals that nearly two-thirds of retailers face challenges with siloed systems and limited data analysis capabilities. To address this, retailers must adopt robust data management systems that deliver real-time insights and predictive analytics. These systems drive operational efficiency and elevate the customer experience by ensuring products are available when and where they are needed.
Zebra’s Modern Store framework exemplifies this approach, integrating data capture solutions with intelligent workflows to generate actionable insights. By leveraging tools like smart shelving, RFID tags, and AI-powered analytics, retailers achieve greater inventory accuracy and reduce loss prevention challenges. These improvements directly impact profitability and foster customer loyalty.
Retail’s Future is Digitized and Automated, with Connected Frontlines
Zebra envisions a future where frontline operations are fully digitized and optimized. This vision stems from the belief that technology should empower people, making work better every day for employees and the customers they serve. By promoting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, Zebra enables retailers to adapt to shifting market conditions and evolving customer expectations.
Our study reinforces this vision, showing that workflow optimization helps organizations achieve better financial outcomes while building stronger relationships with customers and employees. For example, retailers that improved their loss prevention workflows experienced a 1.2% increase in revenue growth, adding significant value to their businesses.
Partner with Zebra for Intelligent Operations
Together with our partners and customers, we are shaping a future where operations are efficient, intelligent, and centered on human needs. The time to begin this transformation is now—because better starts today. As a global leader in intelligent operations, Zebra Technologies is uniquely positioned to help retailers navigate this transformation.
With decades of expertise in data capture and automation, Zebra provides a comprehensive portfolio of solutions designed to connect the frontline, enhance visibility, and optimize workflows. AI-powered inventory management and real-time task prioritization are just some of the tools Zebra offers to help retailers achieve their operational goals with precision and confidence.
Zebra’s dedication to innovation and customer success is evident in its relationships, including our collaboration with Oxford Economics. This alliance delivers valuable insights into industry trends and positions Zebra as a trusted advisor to retail leaders worldwide.
The findings of our study highlight the critical need for intelligent operations in the retail sector. By embracing technologies that provide real-time insights, foster connected collaboration, and integrate automation, retailers are uncovering remarkable opportunities to innovate and excel in a competitive environment.
