Retail, Studies — April 24, 2025 at 7:01 pm

93% of the retailers involved in a Zitec survey perceive economic uncertainty as one of the biggest challenges of the year

by

Retail PlaybookZitec, a leader in digital transformation solutions, announces the launch of Retail Innovation Pulse, a playbook dedicated to addressing challenges in the retail industry, which explores digital strategies designed to enhance competitiveness. 

In a fast-changing commercial environment, retailers who adopt agile strategies, test initiatives through MVPs (Minimum Viable Products), and implement modern architectures hold a clear advantage in front of an increasingly demanding and connected digital consumer.

Alex Dobre_Retail and Distribution Line Director_Zitec„We developed this strategic document to bring clarity in a time when making good decisions is challenging. Many retailers feel the pressure to do more with less, but reactive solutions are no longer enough. This is not just about digitalization or following fashionable trends, but about strategic choices that can make the difference between stagnation and real progress”, said Alex Dobre, Retail and Distribution Line Director, Zitec.

The playbook is based on a survey conducted at the end of 2024, in which Zitec consulted over 50 retail companies from Romania, most of them part of international groups.

According to the report, 93% of retailers identify economic uncertainty as the main challenge of this year. Inflation, rising operational costs, and unpredictable fiscal policies directly impact profit margins and complicate the planning process.

In this context, retail companies are shifting their focus towards innovation and efficiency: approximately 70% of respondents prioritize the development of innovative products and services, while an equal percentage emphasize cost optimization and operational efficiency.

With its strategic content combining data from the survey and the expertise of Zitec specialists, Retail Innovation Pulse  becomes a key tool for companies seeking to make informed decisions regarding technology investments. The report offers concrete examples of impactful technology applications: from loyalty programs that boost engagement, to omnichannel strategies that unify the shopping experience, and essential technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cloud migration.

Retail Innovation Pulse can be accessed here