RTIH Newsletter 06.02.25

Hello everyone,

As we wrap up the first month of 2025, it’s time to take a look back at the biggest stories shaping the retail technology landscape. From major acquisitions and strategic partnerships to AI-powered innovations redefining customer experience, January has been packed with game-changing developments.

Here's your briefing on the most important stories from January:

1. Reckon.ai reports that its first autonomous microstore in partnership with Ikea is about to open in London

In a LinkedIn post, Ana Pinto, CEO at Reckon.ai, said: "By streamlining customer access to Ikea products, optimise inventory management, and boost efficiency - food service revolution is there and our technology is ready to support. Stay tuned for this super launch and new stores, close to you, are coming too."

2. Infinite Reality follows hefty fundraising push with agreement to buy virtual stores firm Obsess

Infinite Reality , which powers digital media and e-commerce through extended reality (XR), artificial intelligence (AI), and other immersive technologies, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquiree Obsess , a virtual platform that has launched over 400 3D digital stores and experiences.

Founded in 2017 by CEO Neha Singh , Obsess has worked with the likes of Ralph Lauren, L’Oréal, Crate & Barrel, e.l.f. Cosmetics, J.Crew and Disney Music Group. Singh joins Infinite Reality as Chief Innovation Officer, and will continue to develop new products that aim to reimagine how brands interact with consumers online.

“Obsess’s stellar track record of building successful 3D virtual stores for major brands is a testament to the incredible opportunity ahead,” says John Acunto , Co-founder and CEO at Infinite Reality.

3. Currys tests out in-store QR code powered 'want to know more?' experience for product browsing

Currys plc has launched a pilot of an initiative the retailer intends to bring to market across its stores, a QR code enabled “want to know more?” experience that customers can trigger on their smartphone as they’re browsing products.

In a LinkedIn post, Dan Rubel , Brand & Marketing Director at Currys, said: "I believe this will be a gamechanger for us. I can’t believe we didn’t do it like this earlier. Mimic the in-store shopper experience by clicking here for yourself.”

4. Hugo Boss goes live with AI powered product content across global e-commerce platforms

HUGO BOSS has launched AI powered product content live across its e-commerce platforms globally.

“This isn’t just about leveraging cutting-edge technology, it’s about delivering meaningful innovation that drives tangible results for our customers and our business,” says Dr. Jan Philipp Wintjes , Executive Vice President Global Omnichannel.

5. GK Software buys Nomitri with founders Trinh Le-Fiedler and Max Fiedler remaining in managing positions

GK Software SE , a provider of commerce solutions for retailers, has acquired Nomitri, a Berlin-based AI self-checkout technology startup.

It says that the transaction will expand its commerce capabilities with out of the box SCO (self-checkout) and store operations solutions to expand the company’s global portfolio of retail customers.

“Nomitri has been an integral part of the GK partner ecosystem for some time, and its innovative capabilities have consistently impressed both our team and leading retailers," says Michael Scheibner , CEO at GK Software.

6. All eyes on Leiria , Portugal as Sensei and MC SONAE lay claim to world's largest autonomous supermarket

Sensei has partnered with MC Sonae on the opening of a new Continente Bom Dia location, in Leiria, Portugal, pitched as the world’s largest autonomous supermarket.

In a LinkedIn post, Sensei said: "This revolutionary achievement is a record breaker on so many levels, setting a new benchmark for the future of retail: 1.676 cameras; 1,200 sq m2; 2,000 scales; 21 servers; 10.000 SKU’s."

7. 2025 the year of immersive commerce: 沃尔玛 notches up Zepeto first as it learns what resonates with community

Walmart has launched Zepeto's first ever e-commerce experience for real world items.

In a LInkedIn post, Justin Breton , Head of Brand Marketing Innovation at Walmart, said: "You read it here first… 2025 is the year of immersive commerce! Users are now able to buy real-world No Boundaries items directly on Zepeto by logging in to their Walmart account for a secure buying experience. The purchase of each real-world item also comes with a free virtual twin."

Live shopping specialist Whatnot bags $265 million in Series E funding with valuation hitting $4.97 billion

Whatnot, a marketplace focused on live shopping in the US, UK, and Europe, has announced $265 million in Series E funding, co-led by Greycroft, DST Global, and Avra.

“We believe there’s a better way to shop online, and it starts with creating a platform where sellers can grow thriving businesses around the things they care about most. We’ve proven this leads to the happiest experience for consumers and sellers alike,” says Grant LaFontaine , Co-founder and CEO at Whatnot.

Joe Cano departs Zappos to focus on innovation, CX and digital transformation at Lowe's

Joe Cano has left Zappos, where he held the role of CMO for almost three years, to join Lowe’s as SVP of Digital.

In a LinkedIn post, he said: "After an incredible journey at Zappos, where I had the privilege of working alongside an extraordinary team, I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve joined Lowe's Companies, Inc. ."