Many of you are aware of how the internet has changed shopping habits of the public, but there is another step change and massive blow coming very soon to the retail outlets. Many internet based comparison sites are developing applications to enable the shopper to scan the barcode of a product using the built in cameras and use the internet connectivity within the mobile device, either iPhone, Windows Mobile or Blackberry to use the comparison sites to identify the best price or offer. With the implementation of digital compasses and GPS within the latest devices, your device can even direct you to the shelf of the shop down the high street where the best price can be foiund in that location on that day and time. Alternatively, with a push of a button, it can order it from an online retailer.

Google recognises this trend and provides an interface into its online comparison site, allowing retailers to upload the current price and deals to the Google website. Google has implemented a small but not insignificant change to these data feeds. It now will identify if the product is available from a retail outlet and is currently in stock and on the shelf. This can only mean that very soon, Google will release their own mobile price checker and the impact to the retail community will be significant. How can the high street compete against the warehouse or drop shiipping companies on price?

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