C-store operators are under pressure from every direction. Customers expect speed and personalization. Labor remains expensive and difficult to retain. Emerging growth engines like foodservice demand tighter operational execution.
This environment is forcing leaders to scrutinize technology investments through a much sharper business lens, said Gary Price, executive director, convenience stores retail technology sales leader at Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions.
“While legacy systems can require a significant amount of investment to adapt to changing market expectations, the larger issue is the unmeasured cost of inaction,” he said. “When existing systems prevent retailers from keeping pace with the market and the experience guests expect, they’re leaving revenue on the table from declining customer satisfaction.”
Although retailers recognize the potential in upgrading technology, today’s economic environment means that every capital investment must be tied to quantifiable business objectives. From improving loss prevention and operational efficiency to creating more seamless customer experiences and building a foundation for future growth, technology investments must demonstrate clear returns.
Three questions every technology investment should answer
Before evaluating features or comparing vendors, c-stores should start with the desired business outcome. Three questions can help guide the decision:
1. Will it deliver measurable ROI?
2. Will it improve operational efficiency?
3. Will it provide long-term growth and scalability?
A technology investment should solve current operational challenges while giving retailers the flexibility to respond to what comes next. That means looking beyond the initial feature set to assess whether the underlying architecture can adapt as the business evolves. For example: Is it a modern platform that’s open enough to integrate with third-party systems and APIs? Can it be easily modified as new requirements or services emerge?
Read the full article at How c-stores can future-proof their business with the right tech | C-Store Dive
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