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.

Consumers wary about AI shopping assistants but Amazon is changing perceptions

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

As the retail landscape shifts to a more automated, hands-off marketplace, the industry continues to prioritize investing in AI-powered shopping tech but not all consumers are on board.

The invisible engine: Why the best AI is the one your customers never see

by Benjamin Spiegel — Chief Digital Officer, POLYWOOD

As the dust settles on the initial Generative AI gold rush, a truth is emerging: the most successful brands aren’t the ones forcing AI onto their customers; they are the ones using it as a silent, powerful engine in the background.

Costco expansion strategy delivering on more than one front

Costco, which saw Q3 2026 sales hit $71 billion, representing a 12% spike year over year, is reaping rewards on a few fronts due to its $250 billion strategy.

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.