Retail technology conversations often center on the digital realm, but technology also is a force of change at physical retail as brick-and-mortar operators look for new ways to support engagement and visual storytelling.
To understand these evolutions, Retail TouchPoints surveyed over 100 retail decision-makers. Their responses form the 2026 Retail TouchPoints Store Design & Experience Benchmark Survey Report.
The data reveals a clear push toward physical store expansion, balanced by the realities of technology integration and staffing. Here are a few key findings from the report:
- Digital signage is a priority: Nearly two-thirds of retailers have deployed digital signage to support retail media networks and other engagement strategies.
- Integration hurdles remain: 44% of retailers cite the integration of new digital media and tech components as a primary challenge.
- Physical footprints are growing: 51% of respondents plan to add up to 50 new stores to their fleets by the end of 2028.
- Labor requires focus: 42% of retailers note that hiring and retaining associates continues to present a significant operational challenge.
View or download the whole report here:
