Nominations open for 2026 Automated Retail & Kiosk Innovation Awards

by Richard Slawsky — Editor, Connect Media

The organizers of the Automated Retail & Kiosk Innovation (ARKI) Show are accepting nominations for the 2026 ARKI Awards, recognizing the companies, products, deployments and technologies driving innovation across the automated retail, kiosk, vending and self-service industries.

Solving retail store associate challenges by eliminating the information gap, cognitive overwhelm, annoying AI

by Judy Mottl — Editor: RetailCustomerExperience.com & DigitalSignageToday.com, Connect Media

A Jumpmind AX Insight study reveals retail store associates are battling more than a few challenges and while technology promises big rewards it isn’t always solving the problems associates deal with day to day.

Why AI is failing retail customer service (and how to fix it)

by David Karandish — Founder & CEO, Capacity

Done right, agentic AI and automation can fundamentally change how retail CX operates. However, most retailers struggle to implement AI effectively.

Buc-ee’s opening in San Marcos this year, Boerne in 2027

Buc-ee's will be opening two stores in Texas. The first, a location in San Marcos will open this year and a store in Boerne will open in 2027.

From Noise to Clarity: Reimagining Employee Communication Through In-Store Screens

Retailers often struggle to deliver timely, consistent communication to deskless employees. This webinar explores how in-store digital communication helps unify messaging, improve training and engagement, streamline safety and operational updates, and ensure frontline teams receive the information they need when they need it.

AI in Retail

AI is transforming the shopping experience with personalized recommendations, virtual try-on and smarter inventory strategies. From browsing to check-out, discover how AI is reshaping retail for a more rewarding customer experience.