Core Insights - Retail trends in 2026 are shaped by structural shifts that accelerated in 2025, driven by economic pressures, changing consumer behavior, and technological advancements [1] Group 1: Artificial Intelligence in Retail - The adoption of artificial intelligence in retail saw a significant increase in 2025, with large retailers moving beyond pilot projects to implement AI for demand forecasting, inventory management, personalized recommendations, and automated customer service [3] - AI tools are expected to become integral to everyday retail operations in 2026, influencing product discovery and cost control through AI-powered shopping assistants, dynamic pricing engines, and predictive supply chain systems [4] - Data governance and ethical use of AI are gaining importance, with regulators indicating tighter oversight of automated decision-making, making transparency around customer data and algorithmic processes a competitive issue [5] Group 2: Omnichannel Retail Strategies - Omnichannel retail has transitioned from a differentiator to a basic requirement for relevance, with consumers expecting a seamless experience across online platforms, mobile apps, and physical stores [6] - Retailers focused on deeper channel integration in 2025, investing in services like click-and-collect tied to store inventory, mobile checkout systems, and digital tools to support in-store staff [7]