LEDS HAVE RETAILERS AND CUSTOMERS SEEING THE LIGHT
Philadelphia, PA – February 1, 2018 – The Lighting Practice, a leading national lighting consultant, estimates that 50% of big box retailers are already investing in IoT and smart lighting technology. Jered Widmer, Principal with The Lighting Practice, predicts this number will continue to rise over the next three years.
“Retailers are using data collected through smart lighting systems and retailer-branded apps to better understand their customers,” explains Widmer. The data informs product placement decisions, reveals customer preferences, and time spent in specific departments. Consumers can create a customized experience including turn-by-turn navigation following pre-populated shopping lists, make instant requests for in-store assistance, and find special sales and savings using location-based notifications.
In retail, smart lighting systems use IoT to take advantage of Visible Light Communication (VLC) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. The lighting system allows LED (light emitting diodes) light fixtures to wirelessly communicate with the cameras and antennas in cell phones and other electronic hand-held devices. The premise is similar to satellites in space communicating with your car navigation.
Widmer predicts the Internet of Things (IoT) and advances in lighting technology will continue to disrupt business as usual for retail owners and developers. “Products, embedded with BLE trackers, will communicate with the system,” states Widmer. “Retailers will better understand inventory levels, locate product in dense stockrooms, and even allow customers to complete the checkout process without waiting in lines – using their cell phone to pay as they walk out the door.”
“Advances in digital lighting are giving retailers more tools than ever to drive revenue, serve customers, and enhance the shopping experience,” notes Widmer. “These new technologies are exciting and just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to future potential.”
About The Lighting Practice, Inc.
The Lighting Practice, a WBE/DBE certified firm, has been a leader in lighting design for more than 27 years. TLP has collaborated on projects for public spaces, streetscapes, mixed-use, hospitality, retail, corporate, education, healthcare, and historic environments. Its team of talented lighting designers have created lighting strategies for a variety of notable projects throughout the US and abroad. The Lighting Practice can be reached at (215) 238-1644 or through our website www.thelightingpractice.com
