Retailers spend more m-commerce systems

UK retailers are now making ecommerce and m-commerce developments a priority, according to new research. In the annual, ‘IT in retail’ report which looks at IT expenditure in over 100 UK retailers, money invested in improving online and mobile

solutions grew from 17 to 23 percent. The report also showed that retailers are now realising the importance of these emerging channels and so investing more in them than in store systems.

Conducted by Martec International and sponsored by BT Expedite, the research found that despite company finances being squeezed at present, large retailers are still investing in their general tech. Infact 25% said they intended to replace merchandise management systems.

Richard Lowe, CEO, BT Expedite, said: “Retailers are generally holding IT spending constant again in 2011.

“But there’s a positive indication of an increase of retailers planning to upgrade key business systems to keep pace with the continuing shift to multichannel retailing, as well as the growth of mobile internet access and m-commerce.

“If this happens IT spend next year is likely to increase, but is dependent on both local, and increasingly, international economic factors.” According to the report 16 per cent of retailer already use m-commerce, up from five per cent last year, and a further 12 per cent are planning to take it up in the near future.

Brian Hume, managing director, Martec International, added: “Many retailers are struggling to keep pace with the rapidly changing requirements of multichannel operations with legacy systems slowing them down. Replacing these systems is vital for gaining competitive advantage.

“Consumers expect a seamless experience across all channels and retailers need to offer a single stock pool that can be accessed from all customer touch points, such as smartphones to check stock availability, pricing and product information.’