Exploring the roles of technology in Price Chopper and Shop Rite

Exploring the roles of technology in Price Chopper and Shop Rite

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to expand the boundaries of our knowledge by exploring some relevant information relating to the analysis of technology oriented services. Technological innovation is a phenomenon involving different types of enterprises, belonging to manufacturing and services, public and private etc. One of the most striking aspects of this phenomenon is the investment for the purchase and development of new systems or new software applications, which generally involves a function of research and development (Voudouris, 2008).

Shoprite is chain of supermarkets spread in different regions across northeastern United States. It owns more than 230 stores across United States. The Shoprite supermarkets are considered one of the largest food retailers in Greater Philadelphia. In terms of ranking, the Shoprite stands at 17th rank among all supermarket operators in United States.

Price Chopper is another chain of supermarkets spread across various regions of America and Europe. The head office of Price Chopper is situated in New York. The first Price Chopper store was opened in New York's Capital District in 1932. It offers various products such as food, clothing, furniture, appliances etc.

In this paper, the author will examine the roles that technology offers within the service encounter at both Price Chopper and Shop Rite.

Discussion

Who appears to be doing a better job with technology? Why? How?

Since, both the stores are of same nature, in terms of products and services they offer, it can be said that both the organizations have done a better in integrating the technology across the superstore; be it related to the sale of a product or provision of customer services. Today, the focus on the processes of technological innovation has grown due to the emergence of new technologies. More and more retail stores are making wise use of these technological innovations to improve their services and to attract large pool of customers to their superstores (Reponen, 2002).

With respect to the use of technology at Price Chopper, it has been observed that superstore has effectively utilized the self service technology to create ease for the customers visiting the store. With the help of this technology, Price Chopper is focused to shift the customer experience to the next level. The core purpose of adapting self service technologies is to reduce costs and improve customer service (Park, 2012).

On the other hand, Shop rite has also adapted several service technology tools including: vending machines, automatic payment systems and service stations. These technological innovations have proved to be a core competency for the organization. With the use of such technologies, consumers are expected to see new technologies reorganize their self-service shopping environment in retail.

Is there a clear use of technology-enabled-self-service? Who is doing a better job with self-service initiatives? Why? How?

As, mentioned above, there has been a clear use of self service technologies by both the superstores. However, Price Chopper seems to be using it more effectively and ...