Business Chief Europe Magazine April 2021 | Page 169

SAP RETAIL

SAP ’ s integrated platform is leading the digital drive for retailers to create customer-centric , intelligent enterprises to leverage profitability in a sustainable way

Staying one step ahead of the game is how retailers thrive . Today , brickand-mortar stores are turning their backs on the high street and embarking on a digital transformation to join the online marketplace to leverage sales .

If we push the boundaries even further , the day will come when consumers will order a file from their preferred online sports store - instead of a physical pair of sneakers - and print the trainers in the comfort of their own homes with the use of a 3D printer .
This fascinating glimpse into how digital technology is going to shape the future of our online shopping habits was provided by Dr Christoph Schroeder , Global Vice President of Retail Industry Business Unit at SAP , which marks its golden year as a global brand .
“ As technology evolves , I could see a time when we could use a 3D printer for shoes or clothes in the same way we are used to doing this for spare parts in a factory ,” commented Schroeder , who has worked at SAP for 15 years .
This snapshot of tomorrow ’ s online retail landscape was presented by Schroeder as he discussed how SAP is today working with retailers to navigate the new post-pandemic climate to optimise their online presence to survive this new landscape .
SAP is the market leader in enterprise application software , helping companies of all sizes and in all industries run at their best . 77 per cent of the world ’ s transaction revenue touches an SAP system . Machine learning , Internet of Things ( IoT ), and advanced analytics technologies to help turn customers ’ businesses into intelligent enterprises . SAP ’ s end-to-end suite of applications and services enables their customers to operate profitably , adapt continuously , and make a difference .
“ I believe one thing became very clear in the last year : digital transformation that would previously have been taken two years is now possible within a matter of weeks . Due to the pressure of economic environments , retailers don ' t have the time for organisational resistance ,” said Schroeder , who has taken his dedication and focus as a top sportsman into his leadership role .

“ As technology evolves I could see a time when we could use a 3D printer for shoes or clothes in the same way we are now doing for spare parts in a factory ”

DR CHRISTOPH SCHROEDER GLOBAL VICE PRESIDENT OF RETAIL INDUSTRY BUSINESS UNIT , SAP
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