AI in retail
The retail space has experienced rapid changes over the past few years. These were primarily driven by evolving customer expectations, technological developments, and consumer trends, which led to some retailers facing new challenges.
In response, many are turning to AI-powered technologies such as Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs) and store layout optimisation tools. These solutions, offered by leading providers like SOLUM, have proven to help retailers tackle challenges across operations, customer engagement, and inventory management. With the benefits of ESLs increasingly recognised throughout the industry, analysts project that a significant portion of retailers—particularly in grocery, electronics, and fashion—will adopt ESLs by 2030.
Research also suggests that layout optimisation technologies, such as those implemented through camera-integrated ESL systems, can boost in-store sales by 15–20% by enhancing shopper navigation and enabling data-driven merchandising decisions.
Current challenges in retail and how AI can help
Today’s economic environment makes it difficult for retailers to manage fluctuating prices and inventory levels. Factors such as demand volatility, competitive pricing, and supply chain disruption can require frequent updates across thousands of SKUs.
Manually adjusting prices and stock records is time-consuming and error-prone. ESLs—like SOLUM’s Newton ESL lineup—enable real-time, automated pricing updates based on AI insights such as demand forecasting, competitor comparisons, and promotional timing. These systems can also sync with backend platforms to deliver live inventory status, helping stores avoid stock outs or overstock.
According to industry studies, automating price updates with ESLs can reduce labour costs by up to 50–80%, while also improving pricing accuracy. With these repetitive tasks handled automatically, store associates can focus on value-added responsibilities like customer interaction and store presentation.
Smart data insights through integrated solutions
Beyond pricing, ESLs also support rich data collection and analytics. For instance, by tracking how often prices are updated or which promotions are triggered, retailers can identify patterns in demand and buying behaviour.
When ESLs are combined with technologies such as SOLUM’s Vision AI or BLE tracking beacons, the system can analyse customer dwell time, product-level attention, and movement heatmaps throughout the store. These insights help refine store layout, enhance ad placement, and guide operational strategies.
Solutions like SOLUM’s platform architecture also centralise these inputs into a unified dashboard, making it easier for store managers to respond in real time with informed decisions.
Conclusion
AI-enabled retail solutions are no longer a futuristic idea—they are transforming stores today. With technologies like ESLs, shelf monitoring, and customer tracking integrated into one seamless platform, retailers gain not only operational efficiency but also meaningful customer insights.
As a global leader in digital retail infrastructure, SOLUM continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible—providing scalable, reliable, and intelligent systems that redefine how modern retail operates.
