Gene Hoffman

BrainTrust Query: So What's With Smartphones?

February 1, 2012

FROM RETAILWIRE:
We are constantly being pointed to any of a number of other new technologies as both the wave of the future and the demise of retail as we know it. Frequent grocery shoppers might wonder what all the excitement is about. Are we over-thinking the use of mobile technology for grocery shopping and assuming it is going to be a much bigger opportunity than it will really be?      [more...]

Viva la Difference! Fashion garments and food items come from slightly different planets. When you know what a "cool" purse -- or appliance -- looks like, or how your peer group feels about it, mobile technology shortens the decision process. Viva smart phone usage!

Food, since it is more perishable, can frequently create a need for more personal involvement. Many people, despite their grumblings, like to browse among the wide and unique assortments of food and groceries for themselves, check out the freshness by their own personal standards, and touch the products that they are going to eat. In addition, for many people there is a "lift" in just being among other people and observing how they decide food choices.

Grocers may embrace more mobile technology in the future, but only if they feel they must to preserve their share of market.