Stores like Borders Books will be able to offer preview video clips from movies, gift recommendations, and book reviews in the store. If one GAP store doesn t carry an item you want, the active kiosk will surely be able to tell you which location does. The kiosks will, without doubt, be powerful tools for retailers. There are plans to include inventory control features, as well as handheld wireless devices to increase the efficiency and productivity of the kiosks. Unlike completely Web-based ventures, the kiosks do not require traditional retailers to delve into what can be very unfamiliar waters.
Many shoppers are still distrustful of Internet shopping.
Oftentimes customers will still follow Web orders with phone calls, incredulous that someone is lurking behind the browser. The kiosks offer those distrustful shoppers an easier transition between a physical and virtual shopping environment. At any rate, the kiosks themselves will change the face of retailing. At the same time, the kiosks promise to be a dynamic force in the Internet phenomenon. Retailers that want to keep pace with industry trends should take note of the new kiosk technology.