​Two-thirds of retail workers are not worried about their jobs being automated, according to YouGov

The “Feedback from the Field” report of frontline employees and managers revealed that just 35% of workers are concerned about how new technologies such as AI could impact their roles in the future.

The report highlights how increased automation could be viewed as a way to resolve frustrations with current technology in retail. Of those surveyed, 70% said they aren’t fully satisfied with their tools and IT at work.

Of those dissatisfied with the tools at IT, 52% find them too dated and 44% said they are “unfit for purpose”.

The report also suggests that automation could be a solution to shortages of workers. Of the retail workers surveyed, 56% believe skills and labour shortages will present “critical issues” in the industry, while 27% believe this is already causing critical issues across retail.

Younger retail workers are more concerned about the impact of automation on their role as 43% of gen z and 40% of millennial workers revealed their worries about automation. Of the baby boomer generation, only 23% are concerned.

SafetyCulture lead for UK and Ireland Alex Brooks-Sykes said: “It’s a positive surprise to see such optimism from frontline employees on automation, which can often be perceived as a bane for workers.

“The reality is frontline employees are dissatisfied with their current workplace tools and IT – with our research estimating that outdated and unfit tools cost the retail industry more than £4 billion every year.”

“The frontline reaps the benefit of better technology, and businesses can benefit from improved efficiency, better risk management, and enhanced training.”

“Of course, retail often relies on the human touch. But investing in people and technology makes for a powerful combination.”