Research report (IHL Group, distributed via CDW) based on a survey of 300+ mid-market retailers (revenues $10M–$2B; survey opened mid–late August 2025). It argues mid-market retailers must accelerate technology adoption (AI, computer vision, RFID, etc.) or be outpaced by better-funded competitors. Key findings: 7.2% sales growth expected for 2026; top barriers are ROI uncertainty (71%), integration complexity (71%), and data security risks (68%); only 25% have strong in-house technical expertise; 55% of IT budget is spent on maintenance leaving 45% for innovation. The report highlights that leaders (early adopters/fast followers) show markedly better performance and ROI perceptions, and recommends prioritizing integration-friendly solutions, building internal capabilities, and emulating fast-follower practices.
Questions this document answers
More than 300 responses (survey opened mid–late August 2025).
$10 million to $2 billion.
ROI uncertainty 71%; integration complexity 71%; data security risks 68%.
55% (keeping the lights on), leaving 45% for new/advanced systems.
25%.