How Retail Automation is Transforming the World
Retail automation refers to the use of machines, software, and networked systems to perform tasks that were traditionally manual. In practice, this includes automated picking and packing in warehouses, self-checkout and kiosk systems in stores, robotics for material handling, and software systems that coordinate inventory, pricing, and fulfillment workflows.
This page is a curated list of external reference articles and examples related to retail automation. Each item below includes an image and a link to a source. The intent is to provide starting points for understanding how automation is applied in retail environments and what operational changes can result.
Automation in Warehouses and Fulfillment
Many retail systems depend on large-scale fulfillment operations. Automation in this context typically includes robotic material handling, automated storage and retrieval, and software-driven picking workflows. These systems aim to move inventory efficiently through receiving, storage, order preparation, and shipping.
Read the full article here: http://www.businessinsider.com/amazons-robot-army-has-grown-by-50-2017-1
The adoption of automation can also affect staffing models, task allocation, and job requirements. Some sources focus on the broader economic and workforce impacts of automation as it becomes more common in retail operations.
Read the full article here: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/aug/16/retail-industry-cashier-jobs-technology-unemployment
In-Store Automation: Checkout, Kiosks, and Vending Concepts
Automation inside physical stores often focuses on checkout and customer interaction points. Examples include self-checkout stations, payment kiosks, automated vending concepts, and systems designed to reduce the number of manual steps required to complete a transaction.
Read the full article here: https://www.betterbuys.com/talent-management/7-jobs-worth-automating/
Read the full article here: http://time.com/3880751/keedoozle-americas-first-automated-grocery/
Read the full article here: https://www.techrepublic.com/article/walmart-testing-fully-automated-store-with-no-cashiers-or-checkouts/
Read the full article here: https://www.thestar.com/business/2015/05/08/how-a-new-breed-of-vending-machine-is-poised-to-take-on-retail.html
Read the full article here: https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Supermarket-self-checkout-machine-kiosk-manufacturer_60598759885.html?spm=a2700.7724838.2017115.57.22222084ESNh2g
Operational and Workforce Impact Topics
Some sources emphasize the potential operational impact of retail automation, including how systems can change job roles, reduce repetitive tasks, and shift labor requirements toward maintenance, supervision, and system monitoring.
Read the full article here: http://fortune.com/2017/05/21/automation-retail-job-losses/
Read the full article here: http://blog.signifi.com/blog/top-3-reasons-why-automated-retail-kiosks-are-becoming-so-popular
FAQ: Retail Automation Reference Page
What is retail automation?
Retail automation is the use of automated equipment and software systems to perform retail tasks such as
checkout, inventory handling, order fulfillment, and customer self-service.
What are common examples of retail automation?
Examples include warehouse robotics, automated picking systems, self-checkout kiosks, automated vending
concepts, and store systems that reduce manual transaction steps.
Does this page describe a single retail automation system?
No. This page provides external reference links to multiple examples and articles covering different types
of retail automation.
Why are the links included?
The links provide additional background and viewpoints on how automation is being applied in retail and how
it can affect operations and staffing.