M&S will deploy Vusion’s Connected Store platform across a number of new stores, as the retailer continues its investment in modernising bricks-and-mortar operations and improving in-store experiences for customers and colleagues.

The initial deployment will focus on practical operational improvements, including managing product information more effectively.

It will also support colleagues in locating products more efficiently through location-aware capabilities, such as flashing labels, and helping simplify in-store inventory processes and shopfloor execution.

“We are pleased to be working with M&S as it continues to invest in its store estate and colleague experience,” said Roy Horgan, CEO UK & Ireland at Vusion. “Our Connected Store platform is designed to help retailers improve operational execution while providing the infrastructure to support future innovation.”

The news comes as Vusion completes its acquisition of In-Store Media (ISM), marking a major step by the technology provider in its strategy to turn stores into digital media assets and live shopper engagement hubs.

Over the past five years, retail media networks (RMNs) have become a key growth channel and new revenue stream for retailers, primarily activated through online channels. However, now brands are looking to tap RMN opportunities from their physical locations.

“Retail media has already transformed the economics of online commerce. The next frontier is in stores, where most shopper traffic remains and decisions of purchase are made,” said Thierry Gadou, Chairman and CEO of Vusion.

“Together, we now have an exceptional opportunity to bring that vision to life, combining our cutting-edge connected store platform and ISM’s retail media expertise to create lasting value for retailers, brands and shoppers,” he added.