Top 3 reasons we need robots in malls

New York — Coming soon to a mall near you…robots?

Mike Kercheval, president and CEO of the International Council of Shopping Centers, is making the case for the use of robots in shopping malls. In an op-ed commentary on CNBC.com, Kercheval says the robot's potential on the front lines of retail is limitless—and soon, he adds, “it will be difficult to imagine a visit to the local mall without them.”

Here are three reasons Kercheval says we need robots in malls:

1. Shoppers are tech savvy and there is no turning back.

Shoppers have already demonstrated their desire for a more tech-integrated experience through their adoption of new digital channels and tools. Robots are just the next logical step. In fact, it’s already happeng. Kercheval cites an ice cream shop in a shopping mall in China, where a smiling robot runs the show. Customers order through a computer and then watch as the robot creates their treat.

2. Provide a leg up on the competition.

Properly leveraged, the capabilities and benefits of robots can help improve a retailer’s business strategy and bolster bottom lines. As an example, Kercheval references the RFSpot Pro robots that roam Tesco stores and, using RFID technology, do a fast (one hour) inventory check.

3. Offer a meaningful service.

Sure, robots can provide such assistance as carrying a shopper’s purchases around the mall. But they can also help shopping centers with more dangerous tasks of keeping stores and customers safe.

To read Kercheval’s full commentary, click here.