There are three top areas in technology to explore in 2025 to be prepared for 2026, according to Art Sebastian, founder and CEO of Des Moines, Iowa-based NexChapter, a consulting firm helping retailers with loyalty, retail media and digital commerce strategy.
First, use dynamic planograms to optimize space allocation by store or cluster, said Sebastian, who spoke Monday at CSP’s Center Store Forum in Lombard, Illinois. These planograms help retailers respond quickly to new product launches and trends—and aid in driving sales per square foot.
“Dynamic planograms add smarter shelves, stronger sales,” Sebastian said. “They are proven to deliver a 12% to 20% category sales uplift.”
Such planograms also improve agility, Sebastian said.
“Store-specific optimization boosts sales 3% and reduces inventory waste by 10%,” he said, adding that real-time planogram updates can lift sales up to 15%.
Secondly, implement electronic shelf labels, which provide real-time pricing updates and accuracy, offer labor savings on print shelf tag changes and enable targeted promotions and compliance.
Finally, set up an in-store retail media network to engage shoppers with promotions and storytelling, monetize in-store media with supplier dollars and adapt messages by time of day, weather or product inventory.
“In-store retail media creates a win-win,” Sebastian said. “Digital displays offer an opportunity to reach customers in store at the point of decision with retail media,” he said. “Effective retail media networks drive incremental purchases while also bringing in advertising revenue.”
He added:
- 71% of consumers notice digital displays and in-store screens.
- 31.5% of shoppers who discovered a new item while browsing in store purchased it immediately.
“Understand your customers,” he said. “Rethink value for customers, differentiate yourself and invest with purpose.”
To understand one’s customers, survey loyalty members, talk to customers in the store, conduct real research and apply the insight one gathers, Sebastian said.
In rethinking value for customers, he said, “Determine the role of private label, optimize promotional tactics and leverage loyalty to target behavior change.”
To differentiate oneself, Sebastian said, decide what makes one’s brand unique and different. Is it assortment, services, experiences, foodservice?
Finally, to invest with purpose, “Lean into new capabilities and apply rigor to investments,” he said. “Everything must grow sales or reduce cost.”
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