Retail in unprecedented times
Everything has changed. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a transformational impact on retailers around the world. Out of adversity, we are witnessing a new wave of ingenuity and innovation, as retailers re-focus on survival and growth.
In the space of a few months, we have seen new supply chain models, new offerings, a rapidly-accelerated shift to on-line operations and a fundamental reprofiling of employee roles and responsibilities. At Fujitsu, we are committed to helping retailers through these uncharted times.
With social distancing a reality for the foreseeable future, those businesses that are able to function have also had to make significant adjustments to operate safely
Facing extreme challenges
The COVID-19 restrictions have impacted many retail businesses, in particular those relying on physical stores such as fashion clothing, department stores, bars and restaurants. Conversely, some businesses, like grocery, pharmaceuticals and health, have seen spikes in demand. With social distancing a reality for the foreseeable future, those businesses that are able to function have also had to make significant adjustments to operate safely. These include creating new supply chains, introducing new warehousing and store layouts and moving to more blended on-line/physical store operating models.
While the true human cost in terms of retail jobs and employee wellbeing is still playing out, it is clear that many people and businesses are finding resolve and resilience, and planning for a new normal. Where there is growth in retail in 2020, it is likely to be largely focused around online and home delivery operations. Against this background, Fujitsu is working with retail customers worldwide to help plan their survival and growth strategies, focusing on how digital innovation can drive efficiency and create new opportunities, despite the challenges posed by COVID-19.
Employees need to feel enabled, motivated and empowered. Customers need to feel engaged, enlightened and delighted with service levels
Introducing human centric retail
People have always been front and centre of Fujitsu’s strategic thinking, not just at times of global crisis. The concept of human-centric retail starts from the premise of understanding how technology can improve people’s lives, both as retailers and retail customers. Through our co-creation approach, we are committed to helping retailers adapt to the post COVID-19 world, helping them understand how new immersive and experiential technologies can transform the shopper experience, open up new opportunities and drive new levels of engagement and loyalty.
At times like these, it has never felt more important and more relevant to put people first. Employees need to feel enabled, motivated and empowered. Customers need to feel engaged, enlightened and delighted with service levels. And, of course, both employees and customers need to feel safe and protected. Above all, they need retailers they can trust. We believe digital innovation is key to achieving this vision.
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