➤ Key Highlights

• According to a Scale Computing 2024 survey, 26% struggle with system reliability.

• Four in 10 executives plan to engage customers through enhanced shopping experiences, according to Deloitte.

• Three out of four retailers currently rely on this technology model.

• Scale Computing solutions combine cloud computing with local processing, virtualized on a low-cost cluster of servers that provides automatic failover and solves the reliability concern.

• Scale Computing’s survey of 150 multi-site businesses found that 44% of retailers are struggling with promotional complexity.

• Black Friday pricing needs to be identical across all stores, and systems must handle rapid changes without creating confusion or pricing errors.

• 31% of retailers find data availability hinders critical operational decisions.

Recent survey data indicates that retailers are facing ongoing challenges with system reliability, data availability, and promotional complexity. Retailers are adopting hybrid infrastructure models that blend cloud computing with local processing to address these operational concerns. Executives are also prioritizing enhancements to the customer shopping experience.

Through the lens of evolving occupier demand for technology solutions, this event underscores a shift in retail sector expectations toward systems that can ensure reliability and support seamless customer interactions. Occupiers are seeking adaptable technology platforms capable of mitigating disruptions and maintaining consistent operations. Enhanced data analytics and rapid response capabilities are increasingly seen as baseline requirements for meeting both operational and experiential goals. The adoption of new infrastructure reflects a broader move to align technology investments with the evolving demands of retail environments.

⚠️ Why it matters now

For CRE360’s audience, the changing expectations of retail tenants highlight the importance of supporting advanced, reliable technology infrastructure within retail spaces. Developers, capital providers, and operators will need to consider how these evolving requirements may influence leasing decisions and property competitiveness. Understanding occupier demand for integrated technological solutions is key to aligning assets with the current and future needs of retail operators.

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➤ TAKEAWAY

As retailers continue to prioritize operational reliability and customer experience, adoption of hybrid infrastructure models may expand further. The evolving demands outlined in recent survey data could prompt property stakeholders to evaluate and, where necessary, upgrade existing retail environments to meet these needs. Ongoing engagement with occupiers about technology requirements may guide future property enhancements.