In your opinion, how has the Retail landscape evolved over the years? What are some of the advantages of the current technological evolution?
Technology has been transforming the Retail landscape for years. At DICK’S, we’ve been focused not only on continually improving our e-Commerce and in-store technologies, but also we’ve invested significantly in our Distribution Centers and in integrating our digital and store channels to build a best-in-class omni-channel platform. We truly see our stores and our online experience as one integrated approach.
As we’ve seen recently, customers have responded very positively to the seamless, customized shopping experience enabled by our technology, like e-Commerce, BOPIS (buy online pickup in store), Contactless Curbside Pickup, our Scan-Pay-Play contactless checkout capability, and more. We expect the behaviors adopted by consumers during the pandemic will continue.
What, according to you, are some of the challenges plaguing the Retail landscape, and how can they be effectively mitigated?
At DICK’S, we are always working to “stay close” to continually changing consumer preferences. The industry is evolving rapidly, and we are working to always ensure our customers can shop our products where, when, and how they want.
While adhering to safety and social distancing requirements, we believe you must spend time engaging with customers and partners, listening to your sales staff, and talking to the product and technology teams. By prioritizing these conversations, you are able to find out what’s selling, learn where there are improvements to be made, discover new ideas or sources of inspiration, and ultimately determine how to use company resources (e.g., investments, technological innovations, marketing, and more) to ensure your business is always responsive to the needs and wants of your customers.