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Empowering Retail With Exponential IT: Info-Tech Research Group’s Strategies for Enhancing Customer Value and Business Growth

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Info-Tech Research Group has published a comprehensive blueprint for retail IT leaders, emphasizing the urgent need to integrate exponential technologies like AI, cloud computing, and data analytics. By addressing key priorities, retailers can enhance customer experiences, streamline operations, and drive sustainable growth. The research highlights how innovation and modernization of legacy infrastructures are crucial to staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

TORONTO, July 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Retailers today face relentless pressure to stay competitive, drive innovation, and elevate their market positions. In such a dynamic environment, IT leaders are increasingly tasked with enabling organizations to harness exponential technologies for sustainable growth. In response to this pressing need, Info-Tech Research Group has published its latest blueprint, Priorities for Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in the Retail Industry. This research highlights the urgent need for IT leaders in the retail sector to integrate advanced technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and data analytics. By addressing these critical priorities, the industry can overcome current obstacles and unlock new avenues for growth and innovation.

Info-Tech’s newly published industry research underscores the increasing customer demand for personalized services and transparency. However, many organizations are grappling with the challenges of delivering on these demands due to complex and costly legacy infrastructures. Emphasizing the need for innovation, the firm stresses that organizations must recognize IT leaders as valued business partners in order to embrace exponential technologies.

“As technology continues to undergo game-changing levels of innovation, organizations are faced with the real possibility of being left behind their competition,” says Donnafay MacDonald, research director at Info-Tech Research Group. “It is imperative that organizations be prepared for the next wave of rapid, exponential technological evolution. Organizations that are readily positioned to pivot, adapt, and adopt new technologies have the greatest potential to unlock value.”

The importance of adopting Exponential IT within the retail industry to combat disruptions cannot be overstated, especially for IT leaders. With speed being imperative, Info-Tech cautions that IT leaders and organizations are at risk of falling behind if they do not adopt new technologies fast enough.

“Adopting an Exponential IT mindset is about being prepared for growth by evaluating existing operations and organizational structures and taking steps to modernize them,” adds MacDonald. “Our research identifies foundational capabilities and essential steps to take in the process of adopting an Exponential IT mindset to help organizations prepare.”

Info-Tech’s research highlights several critical priorities for retailers, including the need to develop robust IT infrastructure, integrate advanced technologies seamlessly, and cultivate a flexible workforce capable of leveraging new digital tools. These strategies are essential for fostering innovation, improving productivity, and maintaining a competitive edge in the market.

The firm’s blueprint details three key priorities for IT leaders to focus on when adopting an Exponential IT mindset. These recommended priorities are:

Transform Infrastructure and Applications Into Utilities: Leverage demand-driven supply chain networks for flexibility and real-time decision-making capabilities. This approach also includes adopting cloud computing for applications and restructuring existing applications as part of digital modernization.Treat Data as a Product: Data must be treated as a product with a value proposition. Organizations can increase productivity and gain a competitive edge by evolving data ownership, increasing cross-functional influence and collaboration, and marketing and selling data assets both internally and externally.Let AI Take Over Core Operations: With ongoing advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning, there will be significant progress toward higher automation. IT leaders must prepare for the automation of infrastructure and operations with a clear IT strategy and the implementation of new technologies.

The firm’s blueprint explains that the retail industry will struggle to remain competitive without adopting AI to support business operations. Leveraging AI and automation can significantly enhance efficiency and generate real-time insights, enabling organizations to meet evolving business needs and maintain a competitive edge.

By aligning IT initiatives with organizational goals and fostering a culture of innovation, retailers can overcome barriers to digital transformation. Info-Tech’s comprehensive blueprint offers practical guidance on building a robust IT infrastructure, managing risks effectively, and creating a data-driven environment that supports continuous improvement. Adopting these priorities will help retailers navigate the complexities of the digital age, improve operational efficiency, and sustain a competitive edge.

For exclusive and timely commentary from Donnafay MacDonald, an expert in the retail and wholesale sector, and access to the complete Adopting an Exponential IT Mindset in the Retail Industry blueprint, please contact pr@infotech.com.

Info-Tech LIVE 2024

Registration is now open for Info-Tech Research Group’s annual IT conference, Info-Tech LIVE 2024, taking place September 17 to 19, 2024, at the iconic Bellagio in Las Vegas. This premier event offers journalists, podcasters, and media influencers access to exclusive content, the latest IT research and trends, and the opportunity to interview industry experts, analysts, and speakers. To apply for media passes to attend the event or gain access to research and expert insights on trending topics, please contact pr@infotech.com.

About Info-Tech Research Group

Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world’s leading research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT and HR professionals. The company produces unbiased, highly relevant research and provides advisory services to help leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For nearly 30 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations.

To learn more about Info-Tech’s divisions, visit McLean & Company for HR research and advisory services and SoftwareReviews for software buying insights.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm’s Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact pr@infotech.com.

For information about Info-Tech Research Group or to access the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and X.

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SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group

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Where the World Smiles Together: Honouring Hospitality on April 24

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International Hospitality Council and IIHM Lead Global Tribute to Hospitality’s Human Touch

LONDON and KOLKATA, India, April 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hospitality is an industry of hope and growth. It spans snow-capped mountains, sunny beaches, forests, and deserts—where dreamers, innovators, and doers work every day to deliver comfort and happiness.

On April 24, International Hospitality Day (IHD) 2025 was celebrated globally by professionals and institutions across over 60 countries. The virtual programme was hosted by the International Hospitality Council (UK) and the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), India’s largest and premier multi-campus institute for hospitality education.

“I realised there’s a day for every profession – except for one dedicated to those whose mission is to bring joy to others: the hospitality industry. And so, International Hospitality Day was born on April 24,” said Dr Suborno Bose, Creator of IHD, Chairman of IHC, and Chairman of IIHM & Indismart Group, Worldwide.

Established in 2016 by the International Hospitality Council (IHC) and IIHM, IHD was born out of a shared vision between Prof. David Foskett, OBE, Chairman of IHC London, and Dr Suborno Bose. It unites hospitality, travel, and tourism professionals to exchange ideas, promote excellence, and build a spirit of global solidarity.

The IHC continues to champion the hospitality sector worldwide by encouraging collaboration, shaping forward-thinking policy, and promoting education and employment. As in previous years, this year’s celebration featured the Virtual Global Hospitality Summit, where industry leaders reflected on challenges, shared insights, and honoured hospitality’s human essence.

“There was a day for everyone,” Dr Bose reiterated, “but none for hospitality. We created that day.”
“IHD stands on three pillars: Promote, Educate, Celebrate.”

He also underscored IHC and IIHM’s commitment to sustainability, youth enterprise, and initiatives like Young Chef India, which identifies and supports the country’s top culinary student to represent India at the Young Chef Olympiad, the world’s largest gathering of student chefs.

Prof. David Foskett, OBE, echoed the spirit of IHD:

“Hospitality is simple. Speak from the heart. Make people happy. Create careers and contribute to the economy. Most importantly, say thank you – especially to our students.”
“A country without hospitality is barren. A country with hospitality is fertile.”

Two key panel discussions were held during the summit:

Hospitality in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Moderated by Prof. Neil Rippington (International Director, IIHM), with speakers:Ms Riya Mittal, Product Manager and MSc Engineering Management, USCMr Michael Grove, CEO – HotstatsMs Alexandra Janosek, Instructional Designer, Worldwide Curriculum DesignProf. Sandip Mukherjee, Professor Emeritus – IIHM

While technology is revolutionising efficiency and guest experience, the panel agreed that the essence of hospitality—its heart and human touch—remains irreplaceable.

Hospitality: India’s New Growth Story
Moderated by Diwan Gautam Anand, President of the IIHM International College of Distinguished Fellows, the panel featured:Mr K Mohan Chandran, Sr Vice President Operations, Taj HotelsMichelin-starred Chef Chris GalvinMr Yogendra Agnihotri, Sr Regional Director (North and East), Radisson HotelsMs Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson, THSC & President, TAAIMr Rajiv Kapoor, GM, Fairmont Mumbai

The consensus: India is setting a global example by listening, innovating, and serving from the heart—because, as noted, “an unhappy customer doesn’t complain, she simply leaves.”

The celebration paused for a moment of silence in memory of those lost in the Pahalgam tragedy.

Diwan Gautam Anand, iconic hospitality leader and President of FIIHM, closed the summit with a poignant message:

“Thank you for being present on such a landmark day. It is dedicated to all of us who know that time doesn’t erase, it transforms.”

This year’s IHD also witnessed the induction of 65 new Esteemed Fellows into the IIHM International College of Distinguished Fellows (FIIHM). Guided by the motto Fiat Lux (Let there be light), FIIHM is committed to mentoring and shaping future hospitality leaders.

The selection panel included:

Prof. David Foskett, OBE, Chairman – IHC LondonDr Suborno Bose, Chairman – IHC & IIHMMr Ron Scott FIH, International Director, Indismart Group; Director/Secretary, IHC Foundation; Director, APIU Global Limited, UKMr Nakul Anand, Former Executive Director, ITC LtdDiwan Gautam Anand, President, IIHM International College of Distinguished Fellows

Special awards were presented to honour excellence and dedication in the industry. Icons from around the globe extended their wishes.

“This is to express gratitude to Suborno Bose for coining today as International Hospitality Day,” said Mr Puneet Baijal, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad (FIIHM). “IIHM has become an integral part of the industry, and its students are among the best.”

Mr K Mohan Chandran, Sr Vice President Operations, IHCL (FIIHM 2025), stated, “This day honours the global fraternity of hospitality professionals and acknowledges the dedication of team members who make guests feel at home.”

Chef Garry Mclean, the first National Chef of Scotland (FIIHM), added, “Let’s raise a glass to the dedication and resilience of those who make this industry what it is – from chefs to servers to housekeeping staff.”

The World’s Warmest Industry truly had its day. But hospitality is not just about one day—it’s about every day. IHD has become one of the largest global celebrations of unity and inclusivity – a tribute to the human spirit in a world that needs many helpings of kindness to be satiated and at peace.

Contact: Mr. Sujay Gupta, +91 9923057937

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2673903/World_Smiles_Together.jpg

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ARBOR Technology to Showcase Latest Automation Solutions at Automate 2025, Powering Machine Vision, AMR, and Smart Retail Applications

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DETROIT, April 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ARBOR Technology, a leading provider of industrial-grade embedded computing solutions, is excited to announce its participation in Automate 2025, taking place in Detroit, USA, from May 12–15. Located in Hall E, Booth #9126.

Engineered for advanced automation tasks, the FPC-5211 supports powerful edge computing for real-time data processing and AI inference. Ideal for machine vision and smart city applications, it handles data from multiple sources—LiDAR, industrial cameras, traffic sensors—with low latency and high efficiency. This platform recently earned the Best in Show award from Embedded Computing Design at Embedded World 2025.

Designed for flexible industrial deployment, the ARES-1983H series features a din-rail mount and EzIO modular I/O system, allowing customers to easily customize configurations for factory automation, process control, and machine interfacing.

ARBOR introduces the ARTS-1670 and SB-244-RPLU for autonomous mobile robots (AMR) and automated guided vehicles (AGV). Engineered for performance and durability, these systems meet the rigorous demands of real-time navigation, sensor integration, and operational control in dynamic environments.

Built for real-time video and language model (VLM) applications, the AEC-6100 delivers top-tier AI performance at the edge. Ideal for smart surveillance, automated inspection, and robotics, it reduces latency and enhances on-site processing without compromising security.

Powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra processors, the IEC-3714 delivers 34 TOPS of AI performance in NUC size. It supports real-time video analytics for age, gender, and object recognition, enabling automated decision-making for promotions, restocking, and customer engagement.

With its MediaTek MT8781 processor and Android 14 OS, the Ruby 10 is built for mobility, featuring Wi-Fi 6E, 4G connectivity, and hot-swappable batteries for 24/7 operation. Designed for retail and logistics, it supports NFC payments, and has IP65 and 1.2m drop certifications for dependable performance in harsh environments.

ARBOR will also unveil its latest Computer-on-Module solution, offering exceptional computing scalability based on Intel’s Core Ultra and Arrow Lake platforms. These modules are optimized for embedded applications requiring compact, high-performance solutions with broad customization options.

Stanley, General Manager of ARBOR Solution, commented: “We are proud to return to Automate 2025 with a strong lineup of automation-focused solutions. Our innovations not only address the needs of traditional industrial applications but also support emerging technologies like AI and edge computing.”

Automate 2025
Detroit, Huntington Place
May 12-15
Hall E – #9126

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SOURCE ARBOR Technology

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Yiwugo App Sees Overseas Downloads Surge as Hiking Poles and Fitness Equipment Sales Skyrocket

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YIWU, China, April 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Yiwugo.com, the official website of the Yiwu Commodity Market, is the largest commodity wholesale market in the world. Since April 14, 2025, the downloads of the Yiwugo app has surged by 200% in the Trending and Top Free charts of Google Play, driven by international tariff policy adjustments. The app has climbed into the top 30—and even top 10—download rankings across shopping app lists in countries such as the U.S., France, and Malaysia. Many merchants on the platform have reported a notable increase in direct inquiries from international buyers.

According to the Yiwu Index, the outdoor and leisure product sales in Yiwu market exceeded 2 billion yuan in 2024, maintaining an annual growth rate of approximately 9%, underscoring significant market potential. As an emerging sector, outdoor sports equipment has demonstrated robust performance in both domestic and international markets.

Big data analysis conducted by Yiwugo also reveals that transaction volumes for hiking poles doubled year-on-year between January 1 and April 1, 2025. Growing enthusiasm for mountaineering, hiking, and skiing has fueled domestic demand, while markets in Europe, the U.S., Russia, and Malaysia have also driven a spike in orders. Additionally, the National Health Commission’s advocacy for balanced diets and weight management has sparked a wave of purchases for fitness and weight-loss equipment across China.

Zhu Jinming, owner of Haoyang Outdoor Articles Firm which has specialized in mid-to-high-end hiking poles for over two decades, noted a steady rise in orders from clients in Russia and Brazil since 2021. One long-term Russian client, purchasing from Haoyang since 2007, now places annual orders exceeding 1 million yuan. The durable materials and reliable after-sales service of the company keep clients returning, even after trying other suppliers.

Similarly, Haoyang also performs well in the domestic market, with an average of around 500 cases per scenic spot  during peak tourist seasons like “May Day” at destinations such us Mount Huangshan and Mount Sanqingshan.

Yan Peng, founder of Linuo Vanguard Sport, has been a stalwart in Yiwu for over two decades, serving clients primarily from Europe, North America, and beyond. The company’s flagship products—dumbbells, barbells, and exercise bikes—have become synonymous with quality. By investing hundreds of yuan more per ton in chrome plating to ensure rust resistance, or adding an extra inner cloth layer to sandbags to prevent leakage, Linuo has cemented clients’ trust over 20 years. This dedication has also drawn growing recognition through the Yiwugo platform and word-of-mouth referrals.

One Spanish client family spanning two generations has collaborated with Yan for nearly eight years. Since partnering with Linuo, their order volume has doubled, with each shipment now amounting to at least one container.

Domestically, Yan notes a clear surge in sales of home fitness equipment like dumbbells, barbells, and competition bikes, driven by China’s national push for fitness and weight management. “Purchasing trends are shifting toward more professional-grade gear,” he observes.

The philosophy of embracing nature and prioritizing health has transcended elite circles, evolving into a lifestyle embraced by billions worldwide. As transaction figures pulse on the Yiwugo platform in early 2025, they may well hint at the blueprint of the next global trend.

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SOURCE Yiwugo.com

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