Based on insights from our experts around the world, we outline the key supply chain and retail developments for 2026. The common thread: the ongoing rise of AI in all aspects of business, the evolution of commerce as we know it, and what trends like 'hyper-personalization' mean for the already heavily burdened (B2B and B2C) supply chain. Perhaps these insights will provide food for thought and spark interesting conversations in the new year!
1. Broader AI deployment leads to more resilient supply chains
In 2026, AI tools will be more widely used to automate labor-intensive tasks and significantly accelerate implementations. These tools will also further develop to provide incident management capabilities, leading to machine-driven self-healing mechanisms and ultimately to more resilient supply chains.
2. Professional services embrace AI
Organizations in professional services are accelerating the adoption of AI-driven automation to streamline deliveries. This results in faster onboarding, smarter resource allocation, and more efficient support models. As customers demand more transparency and demonstrable value, the focus of professional services teams shifts to outcome-driven collaborations, supported by real-time data and collaborative platforms to create solutions together and achieve demonstrable impact.
3. AI adoption grows steadily, not explosively
While more and more organizations are leveraging new AI capabilities, growth in 2026 will be more gradual than in the past two years. Many organizations realize that data quality and digital modernization are prerequisites for effectively deploying AI and delivering the desired speed, accuracy, and value that everyone is looking for.
4. B2B decision-making shifts to the 'moment of truth'
In the B2B market, intelligent decision-making at the moment a customer wants to place an order is increasingly becoming the norm to optimize customer service and profitable operations. Smart sourcing, order allocation in relation to available inventory, and continuous reallocation become essential. ERP systems are therefore becoming more prominent as a critical link to meet customer expectations in 2026.
5. Unified commerce accelerates through hyper-personalization
Consumers today are everywhere and expect to be able to buy, receive, and return anywhere and at any time. Supply chains must therefore be able to commit to orders in real-time, regardless of the channel. Unified commerce is rapidly gaining ground as retailers try to meet the increasing demands of hyper-personalization.
6. Mobile-first POS replaces traditional cash registers
By the end of 2026, traditional cash register systems will give way to mobile-first POS platforms that serve as omnichannel hubs. These platforms are connected to real-time inventory and fulfillment engines and provide employees with flexible options such as ship-from-store, later pickup, or same-day delivery. Additionally, employees will have access to rich customer context, including purchase history, loyalty status, and open shopping carts, enabling them to serve customers faster, with greater precision and personalization.
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7. Conversational commerce transforms online shopping
Large retailers, such as Walmart, are heavily investing in 'conversational commerce'. This shifts online shopping from traditional search functionality to interaction via AI, fundamentally changing the way consumers discover and purchase products.
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8. Social commerce grows explosively
Social commerce continues to grow at a rapid pace. TikTok Shop recently had a record year with an average of 6,000 live shopping sessions per day. Established retailers, such as Marks & Spencer in the UK, are also entering this channel. It is expected that many more retailers will follow in 2026.
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