With over 30 years of experience in retail, including a background at IKEA, Anders Henricson has a clear vision for the future of physical stores. He believes we are at the forefront of a new era in retail—one that prioritizes experience over mere transactions.

You believe that physical retail stores will thrive in the future?

The future of retail stores will go through an exciting transformation. Physical stores are evolving to meet new consumer expectations, and I firmly believe we’re entering a golden age of in-store experiences. The challenge is to think beyond traditional retail and focus on creating engaging, memorable moments for customers.

What does the future of retail look like?

The future of retail is all about experience and the seamless customer journey, connecting all the retailer’s touchpoints. If you look at the restaurant and hospitality industries, success is no longer just about serving food or providing a bed for the night—it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience. I think retail needs to take the same approach.

Stores must offer something unique that captures customers’ attention and keeps them returning. The gaming industry has mastered the concept of “gamification”—we need to embrace similar strategies to make shopping more interactive, engaging, and rewarding.

How will stores measure success?

For too long, retail success has been measured by conversion rates—getting a customer in the door and ensuring they leave with a purchase. Today, every customer interaction has value, whether it results in an immediate sale or not. We need to rethink how we design physical stores and digital touchpoints, focusing on long-term customer engagement rather than just short-term transactions.

Is digital the only road to success for physical retail?

Digital is a crucial part of the equation, but it’s not the whole story. Online, we can track and personalize everything in real time, but the real magic happens when we bring that same level of personalization into physical spaces. A great in-store experience should feel unique and tailored to each visitor. That’s why we focus so much on the “In-store Experience”—ensuring that digital and physical elements work effortlessly together.