Tech Explained: Here’s a simplified explanation of the latest technology update around Tech Explained: RTIH AI in Retail Awards to return in 2027 following a barnstorming debut during January — Retail Technology Innovation Hub in Simple Termsand what it means for users..
We’re pleased to report that the RTIH AI in Retail Awards will return in 2027, following an overwhelmingly positive industry response to the inaugural event last month.
The 2027 awards will open for entries in July, with winners being announced at a gathering in Central London during February 2027 (venue and date TBC in near future).
Brarista, IBM Consulting, Foundit!, Quorso, Vusion, Sensei, Reckon.ai, EE, Walkbase, Globant, Riskified, and Goddiva were among the winners last week at the 2026 RTIH AI in Retail Awards, sponsored by VenHub Global, 3D Cloud, EdTech Innovation Hub, and Retail Technology Show.
Our 2026 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 29th January and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Lucy Porter.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “According to Amazon’s Andy Jassy: AI is a once in a lifetime reinvention of everything we know, and the largest technology transformation since the cloud.”
“Whether that’s overstating it or not, we’re certainly seeing an increasing number of innovative, potentially game changing developments in this space across both traditional and digital retail spaces. And that is reflected in tonight’s finalists, who are boosting customer experiences and tackling retailers’ painpoints across the likes of physical stores, online, omnichannel, supply chain, and payments.”
“To quote one of our judges: I have to admit, judging these awards was so difficult. So many that would have been worthy winners. And great to see how AI has moved firmly into delivery mode. Firmly into delivering for customers and driving huge innovation.”
Congratulations to our 2026 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended last night’s gathering.
Stay tuned for an indepth review of the awards ceremony in the next edition of RTIH magazine.
You can also download our awards brochure here.
Winners and highly commended entries as follows
AI and Physical Stores
This award focuses on technology deployments enabling physical spaces to thrive via AI powered solutions, even as online shopping continues to grow. We’re looking for examples of reducing friction in the customer journey, offering improved experiences, blurring the lines between channels, and boosting the way in which employees work.
Finalists
Orquest
Reckon.ai
Retail-AI
Sensei
Spacture Al
Tahina
Trigo
VenHub Global
Vusion
x-hoppers
WINNER: Sensei
Further details on our finalists here.