THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE DEVELOPMENT AND APPLICATION OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES IN ASSISTED RETAIL IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC

This study investigates the transformative effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the development and implementation of advanced technologies in the Czech Republic's assisted retail sector. The pandemic accelerated digital transformation across industries, and retail was no exception. The enforced changes in shopping habits and safety measures have led to a surge in the demand for technology-driven solutions in retail, pushing businesses towards innovation to ensure continuity and resilience. The paper analyzes both qualitative and quantitative data gathered from various assisted retail businesses in the Czech Republic. The research employs a mixed-method approach, incorporating case studies, surveys, and statistical analysis to provide comprehensive insights into the swift technological transformations. The findings indicate a significant increase in the adoption of technologies such as contactless payments, augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) in retail operations. It further reveals the increased use of e-commerce platforms, digital marketing strategies, and mobile applications to promote contactless shopping. A notable aspect of the study is the rise of voice-assisted shopping, demonstrating a technological shift towards more personalized and efficient customer service. The implications of these findings suggest that the pandemic-induced circumstances have revolutionized retail technology in the Czech Republic. It also hints at the potential for other industries to learn from the strategies deployed in this sector. The study concludes by emphasizing the need for further research to assess the sustainability and long-term impact of these new technologies post-pandemic.