Retailers increasingly turn to automation and robotics to enhance the in-store experience, and shoppers, particularly frequent visitors, are responding positively. Recent research from the Diagnostic Measurement Group sheds light on how consumers feel about in-store robots and why this trend is likely to expand.
The study surveyed over 400 U.S. shoppers who had visited stores with in-store robots in the past three months. The findings are clear. Most, especially those who shop more often, have a favorable view of robots in retail settings. Nearly 96% of shoppers expressed a positive or neutral attitude toward retail robots, with only 4% reporting a negative perception.
Addressing Key Shopper Frustrations
Today’s retail environment presents several challenges that frustrate consumers. These include inconsistent pricing, confusing promotions, and out-of-stock inventory. Such issues often lead to dissatisfaction and erode shopper trust.
Enterprising retailers are responding by implementing advanced technology, such as inventory robots, to ensure better stock management and accurate pricing. These robots help store teams keep shelves filled with the right products at the correct prices.
Nearly two-thirds of all shoppers now view stores with in-store robots more positively. They believe that robots can directly improve the shopping experience by enhancing the accuracy of on-shelf labeling and ensuring that desired products are consistently available. As these frustrations diminish, consumer satisfaction and trust in retailers grow.
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The Growing Appeal of In-Store Robots
The research highlights that 77% of shoppers view in-store robots favorably. Over 80% perceive stores with robots as innovative, customer-focused, and growth-oriented. Robots are seen as a practical solution to everyday shopping annoyances and signal that a retailer is forward-thinking and invested in the customer experience.
Frequent shoppers tend to feel even more favorable about robots than infrequent visitors. According to the study, repeat exposure to in-store robots only reinforces positive feelings.
For instance, 100% of shoppers who liked seeing a robot once reported the same satisfaction after encountering them multiple times. Frequent shoppers are 29% more likely to appreciate the presence of robots than those who shop less often.
Robots: A Differentiator in a Competitive Market
With more than 61% of shoppers stating they are more likely to visit stores that feature robots, automation is becoming a key differentiator in the competitive retail market. As more stores adopt this technology, they stand to benefit from the perception that they are on the cutting edge, providing superior service and investing in solutions that make shopping easier.
This trend will likely continue growing, mainly as younger consumers are even more receptive to in-store robots. Retailers embracing automation now may be better positioned to attract and retain a tech-savvy customer base.
A Look Toward the Future of In-Store Robots
The study suggests that retail robots are not just a passing trend. They’re a transformative technology that’s reshaping how consumers shop.
By addressing common pain points like inventory shortages and pricing inconsistencies, in-store robots are helping retailers build a more seamless, efficient, and satisfying shopping experience.
As younger shoppers become a larger part of the consumer base, the demand for automated solutions is expected to grow. Making robots a valuable asset for forward-thinking retailers.
With innovations like these, retailers are setting themselves apart in the marketplace. They are building a future where technology and customer satisfaction are integrated.