There is no shortage of media hype over the promise that robotics and automation can bring to all kinds of business applications in the future. But what does this really mean for retail? Specifically, how do retailers perceive the improvements robotics and automation will make to both their supply chains – and their stores – and are they acting on these options now ? If so, in what capacity – and if not, why not?

This report examines the challenges, opportunities, internal inhibitors, and technology enablers affecting the implementation of robotics and automation in the retail industry. It also takes a hard look at retailers’ current – and planned – investments.