Evolution and Revolution of Retailing through IT

Abstract

This chapter examines the impact that IT has had on retailing under two headings–evolutionary and revolutionary changes. The evolutionary changes described focus on the electronic identification of products, the improved communication links between retailers and their suppliers, and the introduction of electronic payment. The revolutionary changes considered are those stemming from e-commerce. The thrust of the discussion is that whilst IT has revolutionised product associated with the physical transfer (delivery or pickup) of goods to customers. This has opened up an opportunity for a new form of retailer that may be the result of an alliance between companies with IT skills (e.g., Microsoft), delivery capability (e.g., DHL) and distributed physical assets (e.g., Exxon).