SMALL OPERATOR
Talking Tech Growth of third-party software, cloud-based platforms and other solutions is making key technologies more affordable and attainable for small operators By Debby Garbato WHILE LARGE CONVENIENCE store
chains continue adding new technologies at every juncture, the industry’s small operators are no longer being left in the dust. A growing cadre of affordable, user-friendly solutions is giving them competitive advantages that historically, only large companies could afford. These include functions like data mining, critical back-office solutions, digital loyalty programs and other consumerinterfacing perks. More vendors are aiming technologies specifically at small businesses. Growth is being driven by the increased presence of third-party software providers (including software as a service, or SaaS models), automated solutions, cloud- and webbased technologies, and “out-of-the-box” preconfigured software. Many technology services are contracted, with outside companies storing, processing and analyzing the information in a centralized location.
“Small chains can now compete without the investment overload,” said Zach Zalowitz, senior director of product management at enVista Corp. in Carmel, Ind., a provider of global supply chain consulting and unified commerce solutions. “It’s become easier to onboard new technology since you don’t have to customize it. It’s instantly deployable, which has been the trend the past four to five years. Ten years ago, products weren’t as prevalent.” Since in-house equipment is minimal, systems require little or no maintenance and are easy to use. An outside provider handles any headaches. This dramatically reduces the number of in-house IT personnel required, making products accessible to the smallest retailers. “Products don’t require care and feeding,” said Gary Saarenbirta, CEO of Daisy Intelligence in Toronto, which offers automated software. “It’s a prebuilt package. We supply support and infrastructure. You don’t need highend data scientists. Our smallest clients have four stores. Automation technology is the new wave.” Many of today’s small-chain technologies are better than those marketed to large chains in years past, said Matt
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