When adopting a new strategy, retailers often take the time to think it through and decide if it is what is best for their operations in the long run. This can apply to a wide range of situations, from marketing methods, updating inventory, customer loyalty programs and many others. One aspect that many merchants are giving more thought to is mobile technology. Businesses are noticing that customers now prefer to use their smartphones and tablets to browse for and buy products, both in physical storefronts and online.

Because of this growing trend, retailers are focusing their attention on accommodating their shoppers by offering mobile options. By doing so, brands are able to boost loyalty, increase sales and even outperform their competitors. Mobile is no longer something that can be put on the backburner by merchants; instead, it is now a required aspect of operations if retailers want to succeed.

Mobile at the forefront of retail
There are many indications pointing to the growth of mobile within the retail industry, and one such sign is a recent study conducted by IMRG Capgemini. Internet Retailing reported that according to the research, the M-Commerce Index increased 136 percent between June 2013 and June 2012.

"The M-Commerce Index remains strong as consumer confidence in purchasing goods and services via smartphones and tablets continue to grow," stated Chris Webster, VP, head of retail consulting and technology at Capgemini. "The findings provide further evidence of the value mobile technologies have brought to the retail sector as consumers continue to shop via this channel."

What else can mobile do for retailers?
Perhaps one of the main reasons that merchants are increasingly implementing mobile technology into their operations is to increase retail sales and boost loyalty. However, there are many other benefits that companies can experience, some of which were highlighted in a recent article from Fierce Mobile Content.

Providing mobile point of sale and other options gives businesses the chance to empower and engage their employees, the source explained. Associates can have mobile devices right on the sales floor to effectively answer customer inquiries and look up information pertaining to various processes. In addition, the source noted that customer communications also get a boost from mobile technology, as employees are not tied down to cash registers and can complete transactions from anywhere within the storefront.

All of these advantages and more can be seen with mobile technology. All retailers need is the dedication, time and willingness to learn with the right POS solutions.