GenAI becomes central to retail loss prevention, shows Zebra’s latest shopper study

As retailers across Asia Pacific—including India—grapple with rising operational pressures, shrinking margins and shifting consumer behaviour, Zebra Technologies’ 18th Annual Global Shopper Study reveals a decisive move toward intelligent automation. Over 87% of retail leaders now view GenAI and automation as essential to loss prevention, marking a significant strategic shift as the sector battles shrinkage and operational inefficiencies.

The study highlights another year of declining shopper satisfaction, both in-store and online. In APAC including India, satisfaction slipped to 75% in stores and 69% online, down from the highs of 2023. Inflation continues to shape shopping behaviour, with most consumers prioritising discounts, while expressing frustration with out-of-stocks, locked-up merchandise and limited self-checkout options.

“Retail’s future belongs to leaders who seamlessly deliver the ‘phygital’ experience through intelligent workflows,” said Subramaniam Thiruppathi, Director, Sales, India and Sub-Continent, Zebra Technologies. “AI, automation and improved workflows are enabling the ...