Technology is constantly changing the way retailers manage their stores and operations, whether it's in security, customer intelligence or inventory. Now, smartphones could be well on their way to changing consumer purchases within retail stores.

According to a recently released study by Harris Interactive, 61 percent of consumers surveyed believe that smartphone payments – transactions completed with the simple touch of the devices against point-of-sale terminals – could replace cash when it comes to buying products from retailers. Sixty-six percent think that these devices could be used for purchases instead of credit and debit cards. While the technology is not widespread yet, the findings highlight the growing importance of the trend, and retailers should start paying attention to how consumers are using their smartphones in-store.

However, retail purchases are not the only thing being transformed by smartphones, writes Travel Agent Central. The source states that consumers are using their devices to comparison shop and buy retail goods even when they are not at brick-and-mortar locations. This means that in order to accommodate these device-carrying customers, businesses will need to implement smartphone strategies into their operations to see boosts in revenue and retention.

This entry was posted by Retail Pro on Thursday, December 13th, 2012 at 4:46 am .