While details are scant, the unified retail tech debut by Xerox and Lexmark at NRF 2026 strongly suggests an increased reliance on AI-driven automation in retail operations to create more streamlined and personalized customer experiences. This likely involves using machine learning for predictive inventory management, personalized marketing, and automated checkout processes integrated into a unified platform. These AI powered workflows will optimize processes and lead to increased profitability for both Xerox and Lexmark.
The retail sector will likely see increased competition among tech providers offering AI-powered solutions, leading to faster adoption of automation technologies and potentially a shift in the workforce skill set required for retail employees. This will directly affect both consumer shopping experiences, and business profitability.
Retail operators can expect significant improvements in inventory management, personalized customer experiences, and reduced operational costs through the adoption of these AI-powered solutions. Workflows will be increasingly automated, requiring staff to adapt to new roles focusing on exception handling and strategic decision-making based on AI-generated insights. Technical implementation will require robust data infrastructure and skilled personnel to manage and maintain the AI systems.