The retail shift from traditional stores to digital channels has opened up a much wider canvas for customer interaction, and expectations are now changing faster than ever. Over the past decade, the industry has been reshaped by new technologies, evolving buyer behaviour and a sharper focus on reducing operational friction. This has made digital transformation not just important, but also unavoidable. Retailers are leaning on tools such as internet of thing (IoTs), analytics and automation to tighten operations, personalise experiences and respond in real time. However, these gains come with challenges, from integration hurdles to security concerns and organisational resistance. Krishna Vyas, General Manager- Director Office, Stone Sapphire India Private Limited, breaks down the digital trends redefining retail, the growing influence of 5G, how companies are adopting these technologies, what stands in their way and where the sector is headed next…
Krishna Vyas, General Manager- Director Office, Stone Sapphire India Private Limited
How have information and communication technology (ICT) needs in the retail space evolved over the past few years?
ICT in retail has shifted from basic digitisation to integrated data and process management. At Stone Sapphire India Private Limited (SSIPL), we have moved from cloud hosting to an on-premises server to manage higher data volumes securely, while using software-as-a-service-based customer relationship management (CRM) and human resource platforms for operational efficiency. Across the industry, ICT spending is growing steadily, driven by the need for real-time visibility, analytics and smoother omnichannel operations. While AI adoption is on our road map, our current priority is building a strong, scalable digital backbone.
How are you leveraging new-age technologies such as 5G, AI, IoT, cloud and blockchain? What are their noteworthy use cases?
At SSIPL, we are not actively using AI or blockchain yet. However, they remain part of our future road map. Our current focus is on digitally integrating operations across retail, logistics and distribution. We are leveraging technology for real-time sales tracking, demand forecasting and performance analytics through secure digital tools. From an industry standpoint, 5G and IoT are transforming supply chains by improving last-mile visibility and warehouse automation. For SSIPL, the priority is to strengthen this foundation, creating a connected, data-ready ecosystem that can seamlessly adopt advanced technologies as they become operationally relevant.
What major challenges have you faced in adopting new-age technologies, and how are you addressing them?
The main challenges lie in legacy systems, the cost of implementation and skill readiness. These issues are reflected across the industry, where most manufacturers still allocate under 10 per cent of their budgets to technology adoption. The gap between operational realities and digital aspirations also slows transformation. To address this, we are taking a modular, phased approach, standardising data processes, investing in training programmes and prioritising technologies that deliver measurable efficiency and scalability.
What are the main priorities likely to shape your organisation’s digital road map in the next two to three years?
Over the next few years, SSIPL will focus on building a unified digital ecosystem that strengthens supply chain visibility, sales analytics and partner integration. Our priorities include expanding data-driven decision systems, enhancing retail automation and improving CRM intelligence for better customer engagement. While AI and advanced analytics remain future goals, our immediate road map emphasises scalable digital infrastructure and workforce upskilling to ensure long-term readiness for next-generation technologies.
Which key digital trends are likely to influence retail in the future?
The manufacturing and retail sectors are entering a phase of data-led transformation. Key trends shaping the future include AI-driven demand forecasting, IoT-enabled supply chain monitoring, and automation in warehousing and logistics. With India’s digital economy is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2030, the focus will increasingly shift to smart manufacturing, predictive analytics and integrated retail technology. For SSIPL, these trends signal opportunities to enhance operational efficiency, improve customer insights and strengthen sustainability through technology-enabled transparency.
