High streets could benefit from technological advancements, says Beds consumer expert
We could soon see technology work hand-in-hand with retail shops not online but on high streets as well
Our high streets could soon be revived with the help of technological advancements, and that's according to a consumer expert in Bedfordshire.
Anne Godfrey from GS1 UK suggested the use of QR codes, bar codes or apps could help not only disclose components and the origin of products but guide buyers through a physical store.
Based on a recent report from GS1 UK, technology could help address industry challenges and opportunities.
The study, which surveyed 507 executives across retail manufacturers, brands, and both physical and online stores, sheds light on how digital transformation is reshaping the sector.
Anne Godfrey, Chief Executive Officer of GS1 UK, said: "The fact that 89% of the people interviewed were willing to say that consumers don’t trust them... that level of honesty is amazing. And I think we can build on it."
One of the key findings of the report is the significant progress already being made in adopting digital solutions.
"46% of those surveyed have already started building out their digital transformation capabilities,” Ms Godfrey said.
This momentum is expected to drive widespread changes in how retailers and brands interact with consumers.
Ms Godfrey highlighted how technology is poised to enhance both online and in-store experiences.
In physical stores, technologies such as QR codes can play a transformative role.
This could range from product provenance to ethical sourcing, offering transparency that builds trust.
Despite the rise of online shopping, Ms Godfrey sees a future for the High Street, enhanced by digital tools.
She said: "Consumers want to talk to humans. They want a simple experience enhanced by digital technology."
QR codes, she added, can improve efficiency by streamlining supply chains and offering seamless in-aisle checkouts.
Modern consumers are increasingly demanding transparency about the products they buy, a shift she attributes in part to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This demand aligns with stricter regulatory requirements, such as the EU’s upcoming Digital Product Passport (DPP), which mandates detailed product lifecycle information.
The future of retail, as Ms Godfrey sees it, is not just about technology but about rebuilding trust and providing choice.
"Consumers expect to contribute to a circular economy," she added.
With tools like QR codes offering insights into a product’s origins, ethical standards, and recyclability, technology can empower informed decisions while driving innovation and efficiency.