Winter 2012, Vol. 37, Nos. 2&3

Abstract: The digital world is invading all facets of life, with lasting impacts on how we live now and in the future. Internet shopping is pervasive and incredibly convenient, posing a significant threat to the bricks and mortar stores. With retail vacancies causing concerns in many communities, the future of the retail district is being called into question. Will the virtual shopper still to go to real stores or will the retail website replace the goods and services offered in the physical store? This debate is taking place everywhere and with every purchase. In this article, the author discusses why the physical shopping experience may need to change and offer more of an authentic human experience to compete with virtual sales.