Trax is a technology company that enhances retail operations with computer vision and artificial intelligence. By leveraging advanced image recognition and data analytics, retailers gain deeper visibility into store conditions, enabling better decision-making and operational efficiency. The ability to capture real-time shelf data ensures that out-of-stock products are replenished faster, reducing lost sales and improving the customer experience. This approach allows brands and retailers to optimize shelf space, track promotions, and improve execution without relying on outdated manual audits.

Retailers and consumer goods companies require accurate insights to remain competitive. Traditional methods of auditing shelves and tracking inventory often result in inaccuracies and inefficiencies. Trax addresses these challenges by digitizing shelf data, offering a clear picture of in-store execution, and automating retail audits. This leads to better shelf availability, improved compliance with merchandising plans, and a stronger connection between brands and consumers.

Data accuracy and efficiency play a major role in modern retail. Store conditions constantly change, and companies must adapt quickly. With AI-driven shelf monitoring, retailers can track planogram compliance, identify stock shortages, and ensure product placement aligns with sales strategies. This level of precision enhances collaboration between brands and retailers, ultimately driving sales and improving the shopping experience.

Consumer behavior continues to evolve, making real-time insights essential for maintaining a competitive edge. Retailers benefit from actionable data that allows for immediate course corrections. Store associates can respond more effectively to changes in demand, and brands can refine strategies based on reliable analytics. The ability to measure in-store execution and adjust accordingly helps businesses operate more efficiently and maximize revenue opportunities.

Blake Tablak, CEO of Trax, has spent years working in retail technology, helping businesses leverage data-driven solutions. In an interview with SME Business Review, he discusses the company’s mission, the role of AI in retail, and how businesses can adapt to shifting consumer expectations. Here’s what he had to say.

Interview Excerpts

 What inspired you to focus on retail technology?

I have always been fascinated by the intersection of technology and commerce. Retailers face challenges every day, from inventory shortages to compliance issues, and I saw an opportunity to bring automation and intelligence into the equation. The goal is to eliminate inefficiencies, provide real-time data, and help businesses make informed decisions. When you improve execution at the store level, both retailers and consumers benefit.

How does AI-powered shelf monitoring improve store operations?

The ability to track and analyze shelf conditions in real time is a game changer. Retailers no longer have to rely on manual checks or outdated reports. AI-driven solutions capture accurate data on product placement, stock levels, and planogram compliance. This means fewer empty shelves, improved sales, and a better shopping experience. Employees can focus on higher-value tasks rather than spending time manually auditing shelves.

What challenges do retailers face when adopting new technology?

Change can be difficult, especially when legacy systems are deeply embedded in operations. Some retailers hesitate to adopt new solutions because of cost concerns or fear of disrupting existing workflows. Our approach is to demonstrate clear, measurable benefits. When businesses see how automation improves efficiency and reduces revenue loss, the transition becomes easier. Education and support are key to driving adoption.

How has retail technology evolved over the past decade?

Ten years ago, most retailers relied on manual processes for shelf audits, inventory management, and merchandising compliance. The industry has shifted toward automation, real-time analytics, and AI-driven insights. Technology now plays a much bigger role in day-to-day retail operations. The expectation has changed from ‘Can we track this?’ to ‘How fast and accurately can we track this?’ Retailers and brands now prioritize data-driven strategies that enhance performance.

How do consumer expectations influence retail technology?

Consumers expect products to be available when they want them. If a favorite brand is out of stock, customers might switch to a competitor. Retailers must ensure that shelves are stocked and promotions are executed correctly. Real-time insights help businesses respond faster to fluctuations in demand. Technology bridges the gap between consumer expectations and store execution, making it easier to provide a seamless shopping experience.

What advice would you give to retailers looking to modernize operations?

Start with a clear goal. Whether it’s improving inventory management, increasing compliance, or enhancing customer experience, having a defined objective helps guide the adoption of new technology. Focus on solutions that integrate smoothly into existing workflows and provide measurable benefits. The key is to leverage automation and data insights to make operations more efficient. Retail success depends on adaptability, and businesses that embrace innovation will thrive in a rapidly changing market.

What role does data play in shaping the future of retail?

Data drives everything. The more accurate and timely the data, the better the decisions. Retailers use analytics to predict trends, adjust strategies, and improve store execution. Without reliable data, businesses operate in the dark. Our mission is to provide retailers with the insights they need to act decisively. Data isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creating actionable strategies that drive growth.

Blake Tablak, CEO, Trax