Five benefits of 5G in retail environments

The fifth generation of cellular networks technology is the most powerful to date. 5G networks offer a combination of high bandwidth and low latency that makes them ideal for Internet of Things (IoT) and other bandwidth-hungry applications, which need reliable, high throughput connections.

The technical superiority of 5G networks makes them ideal for the retail industry’s digital transformation. In addition to high bandwidth and low latency, 5G networks offer stronger network security and the ability to support multiple data intensive connections simultaneously. Together, these attributes enable retailers to offer faster, more convenient, and personalized shopping by integrating enhanced digital experiences in-store and more digital options both within and without physical locations.

Here are five ways retailers can benefit by leveraging the power of 5G networks.

Improved connectivity

5G networks can support simultaneous access for a wide array devices. This improved connectivity allows retailers to offer more efficient and enjoyable customer experiences at brick-and-mortar outlets.

For example, with multiple point-of-sale terminals connected, retailers can create faster checkout processes. With a more robust network, retailers can support in-store connections by customers to an online outlet. Reduced latency ensures that customers can move around the store, navigate the retailer’s website, and get real-time updates for online orders without significant lag or connection drops.

In addition to the benefits listed above, 5G networks can also aid network traffic management through the use of software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN). By using SD-WAN, retailers can optimize network traffic and prioritize data transmissions for critical applications, resulting in improved network performance and customer experiences. This capability is especially important as more and more retailers rely on cloud-based services and applications, which can put strain on traditional networks. With 5G and SD-WAN, retailers can ensure their networks are always running efficiently and effectively.

Better network security

More connections and more digital experience options, however, increase the risk of cyberattacks. But 5G networks feature strong encryption that is up to 10 times more secure than 4G networks. They also come with improved monitoring capabilities to better detect suspicious activity or malware.

With improved network security, retailers can keep their customers’ personal and financial data safe, ensuring a more secure digital shopping experience.

Enhanced customer engagement

5G offers retailers the opportunity to improve every aspect of the on-site shopping process and deliver hyper-personalized experiences to customers.

Through data analytics, retailers can gain insight into consumer demographics and trends, allowing them to craft more tailored marketing campaigns that can be delivered directly to customer smartphones in shopping malls over 5G networks. These networks enable retailers to leverage technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics to create more efficient customer service and enhanced in-store experiences.

Additionally, 5G enables retailers to create omnichannel initiatives that link online shopping processes with physical stores, ensuring a seamless and consistent customer experience regardless of medium.

Retailers can also leverage augmented reality, virtual reality, and even signage to create immersive in-store experiences that customers will want to share on social media, driving organic engagement.

Increased cost savings

By leveraging 5G technology, retailers can reduce a variety of capital expenses, including the costs associated with having on-site IT staff. With enhanced remote connectivity, IT teams from the head office can quickly and easily troubleshoot network issues, should they arise.

Furthermore, 5G wireless networks require less physical hardware compared to existing wired and Wi-Fi networks. This reduces the costs associated with network infrastructure and eliminates points of failure.

Retailers can also reduce costs by integrating IoT devices, such as RFID tags and smart shelves, as well as edge computing devices, to streamline inventory management. This enables retailers to only order more products as they move off the shelves, ensuring they don’t overspend on underselling goods.

Streamlined supply chain management

5G technology can also transform the way retailers manage their supply chain. The low-latency and high-speed capabilities of 5G networks enable retailers to gain real-time insights into their inventory levels. This allows for efficient sale and delivery of products to customers from distribution centers and can help retailers stay ahead of the competition in the e-commerce space.

Additionally, 5G technology also allows for faster and more efficient tracking of products throughout the supply chain, improving a retailer’s ability to respond to delays or disruptions. By enabling the use of robotics to automate some of the tedious tasks involved in the supply chain, retailers can save costs by increasing the efficiency of processing and moving goods.

Inseego can help get retailers connected

Inseego is a 5G-connected solutions provider that can help retailers get connected with minimal cost and complexity. Our solutions provide a platform for implementing 5G networks, on-site technical support, and multi-vendor virtualization, making it simpler to adopt 5G initiatives.

As a leading provider of 5G solutions, we have the experience and technical expertise your retail operation needs to successfully adopt 5G, use its strengths to unlock new opportunities, and stay ahead of the competition. With Inseego, you can tap into the full potential of 5G connectivity to support your digital transformation initiatives.

Contact us today to learn more about how your business could benefit from 5G.