Revisiting predictions for 2020, we've shared our initial predictions on the BOPIS revolution and more data collection and usage in our last article. As mentioned, the focus for retail will be shifting from new tech to technology execution. Let's add two more predictions to our list that will be consequential to the Retail Industry in 2020:

Last-mile logistics will become more critical as an online and retail omnichannel differentiator, with localized fulfillment optimization as a key corporate standard. Expect companies to offer free shipping less than 15% of the time, or less than 60% with conditions and an increase in online-only companies that move to omnichannel.
Intelligent retail will become more practical and will concentrate on specific applications. Artificial Intelligence in retail investments will drive higher ROI with proven applications first. Expect 75% of AI in retail applications, especially any compute functionality such as machine learning (ML) to be hidden from customer view.