Artificial Intelligence

Robotics and smartphone app power Amazon vet's retail start-up

A Seattle-based retail start-up with an in-store backend robotic system and a smartphone app that rivals the convenience of an online shopping cart is generating big buzz these days. Founded and headed up by Nadia Shouraboura, former head of supply chain and fulfillment technologies for Amazon.com, Hointer combines the best of online and brick-and-mortar retailing to take the hassle out of shopping.

Managing labor remains one of a retail company's biggest challenges — and most untapped opportunities. JDA Software's Scott Welty talks about workforce management trends with Chain Store Age.

What are some common mistakes retailers make when it comes to managing labor?

Here are some recommendations from Alan Dabbiere, chairman of AirWatch, for in-store mobility management:

• For corporate-shared devices, retailers should take into consideration how to reconfigure devices when they transfer from one employee to another.

SAN DIEGO & DALLAS — Novatel Wireless, a leading provider of intelligent wireless solutions, has entered into a supply agreement with LoJack SCI, a leading supplier of supply chain integrity and tracking solutions, which will help companies protect their supply chains.

NEW YORK, N.Y. — OrderGroove, a leader in subscription retail solutions, has appointed Mike Camp as COO.

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — The Manufacturing Leadership Council, a global business network for senior industrial executives, has elected Dana S. Deasy, group CIO and group VP of information technology and services at BP, to the board of governors.

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — Staples has become the first major U.S. retailer to have 3D printers available for purchase.

The Cube 3D Printer from 3D Systems, a leading global provider of 3D content-to-print solutions, is already available on Staples.com for $1,299.99 and will be available in a limited number of Staples stores by the end of June.

PLEASANTON, Calif. — Callidus Software, a leading provider of hiring, learning, marketing and selling cloud software, has appointed Bob L. Corey to serve as SVP, CFO. Corey will report to Leslie Stretch, the company's president and CEO.