Some time ago, it may have seemed that the rise of smartphones and tablets meant the demise of in-store retail operations. However, this is certainly not the case, and many merchants are embracing the technology to stay competitive.

According to VentureBeat, mobile marketer InMarket believes that retailers can implement strategies that target consumers who use their devices both in stores and online. This includes creating advertisements that are personalized and that offer items that fit the needs and wants of mobile shoppers. InMarket's communications director told the source that as more customers are using their smartphones and tablets, retailers must be willing to provide for them through the channel or risk losing out to competition.

Mobile retail sales are expected to have a large impact on this year's holiday sales. A report by Citigroup anticipates that digital purchases will account for 20 percent of 2012's total retail sales in the coming months, as more consumers use their devices to buy gifts and other items. This represents approximately $10 billion total. Additionally, by 2016, Citigroup states that mobile purchases will reach $31 billion, according to a study by Forrester Research. 

This entry was posted by Retail Pro on Tuesday, October 9th, 2012 at 3:03 am .