Can brick-and-mortar stores survive in the age of online shopping? Tech may have the answer

Physical shops may seem destined for the history books, but many retail experts believe that – with some reinvention – high street stores have a healthy future

ALT-254's F&B integration work with Marks and Spencer. ONE TIME USE ONLY

Online shopping keeps getting easier, faster and better. Who still wants to go out shopping when it means having to deal with overzealous staff who insist on following you around the store as you browse, or who insincerely bellow “hello” and “welcome” at you as you walk into the store?

A new breed of retail experience consultants, however, believe that brick-and-mortar stores are here to stay – but they will need to reinvent themselves if they are to get customers through the door.

Print option is available for subscribers only.
SUBSCRIBE NOW
Copyright © 2025 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.