Retail giants, Nordstrom takes the lead in networking connections, according to a recent survey

In a year marked by unprecedented challenges for the retail industry, some brands have thrived in the e-commerce space. According to a report by CI&T, Nordstrom, Target, and Home Depot have been identified as the most connected retailers.

The success of these retailers in e-commerce has been crucial in a year that has seen many retailers declare bankruptcy. Consumers who shopped heavily or exclusively online grew by 133% last year, according to Nielsen's data, indicating a significant shift in shopping behaviour.

The report suggests that retailers with the most connected retail experiences won 2020 and are the most future-ready. This connectedness is achieved by integrating B2B online shops with ERP systems, automating processes, and improving customer experience. This integration enables easier ordering independent of time and place and meets complex buyer information needs, enhancing their competitive positioning in the retail market.

Walmart, another major player in the industry, has also seen success in e-commerce, with the pandemic pushing shoppers online. Walmart has cemented its spot in the e-commerce space this year, doubling its online sales in Q2.

However, even the top-scoring retailers on the list, such as Nordstrom, Target, and Home Depot, have room for improvement. CI&T's report predicts these retailers will continue to succeed post-pandemic, but if retailers on the lower scoring end of the list do not upgrade their connected retail ecosystems, they risk falling severely behind.

The survey assessed retailers on several aspects including overall experience, search, shop, cart, buy, fulfillment, and returns. Omnichannel shopping grew by 50% last year, with consumers engaging in hybrid purchase behaviors over the last three months.

Despite being in the bottom three of the list, retailers like PetSmart, Bass Pro Shops, and REI excelled in certain areas. Quality of the product is the third most mentioned aspect that encourages customers to return, followed closely by good customer service and getting a good price.

In the end, the biggest players in retail will move further ahead of their competitors during industry turning points. Connected retailers, including those on the list, have a history of innovation in making shopping convenient for consumers while maximizing revenue. This approach not only ensures survival in the current market but also prepares retailers for the future. The report defines connected retail as having the same item available on different platforms at all times.