The retail media market is forecasted to be worth $100 billion by 2026 in the U.S. alone. By 2028, retail media channels will reportedly represent 15.4% of ad revenue globally. It’s a powerhouse of opportunities for marketers to drive business impact for their brands. 53% of marketers believe AI will significantly impact audience targeting and ad relevancy — both crucial factors for the success of retail media strategies. Given the market’s competitive nature, personalization will be essential to capitalize on these opportunities and stay ahead of the curve — underscoring the pivotal role of AI in ensuring tailored experiences at scale.
Tips to Utilize AI in Retail Media Strategies to Strengthen Customer Loyalty
When businesses demonstrate that they understand their customer, it fosters customer loyalty. It is invaluable in the retail sector. Acquiring a new customer can cost five to seven times more than retaining one. Furthermore, loyal customers spend more and become brand advocates, driving organic growth. Here’s how marketers can unlock customer loyalty for success.
- Personalize the shopping experience: AI-powered recommendation systems can help offer tailored product suggestions based on individual preferences and past interactions at scale, enhancing customer satisfaction and the likelihood of re-purchasing.
- Leverage data for targeted marketing and inventory management: AI enables data-based targeted marketing campaigns, ensuring ads attract attention and action. Additionally, AI-driven inventory management optimized stock levels according to audience response, reducing the wastage of resources. An optimal inventory helps provide a satisfactory customer experience by making items readily available.
- Offer relevant incentives and programs: AI can help identify incentives and craft loyalty programs in sync with customer expectations, needs, and desires. It can tailor discounts, rewards, or exclusive offers to individual preferences. These initiatives enhance customer engagement and incentivize repeat purchases.
- Track and modify strategies in real-time: AI facilitates real-time monitoring of campaigns, allowing for timely adjustments based on changing market dynamics and consumer behavior. This feature enables continuous optimization and drives customers toward the business.
- Employ chatbots and virtual assistants for customer support: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants provide instant and personalized customer support around the clock. AI-driven solutions can enhance the shopping experience and build trust by answering product inquiries, resolving issues, or providing recommendations.
- Streamline omnichannel experiences: AI enables seamless delivery of experiences across channels by combining data from online and offline interactions. AI-driven tools can ensure consistency across channels, providing customers with a personalized shopping experience and strong brand awareness.
Data is the cornerstone of an effective strategy. AI is indispensable for processing and analyzing vast amounts of data to extract actionable insights. From personalized shopping experiences to streamlined inventory management, AI solutions enable marketers to understand consumer behavior, preferences, and purchase patterns. As retail media strategies evolve, AI will be an indispensable tool for driving customer loyalty by delivering personalized experiences, targeted marketing, and seamless omnichannel interactions. Marketers must include AI in these processes build lasting customer relationships — and drive unparalleled business impact for their brands.