The introduction of technology to the retail industry more than 100 years ago helped transform the way retailers conducted business and how customers shopped.
Retailing again is at a crossroads.
New developments in technologies which have been in use for at least a quarter century, are on the verge of completely reshaping the shopping experience as we enter the 21st century. Consumers will have more control than ever before over how and where they shop, while retailers will continue to increase efficiencies in a highly competitive market. It is an important time then, to take a look at developments occurring within the card reading, scanning and monitoring the industries, and how they will impact the retail industry, both directly and indirectly. Many new applications are in the beginning stages of development, with much preliminary testing occurring in 1996 and 1997. However, given the positive feedback that both manufacturers and retailers have received, it is certain that these applications will be used much more extensively within the next five years.