Trends · Ben Buzz · Nov 24, 2025

Partnership Aims to Enhance Marketing Automation in Retail

A recent survey of 207 B2B marketing professionals highlighted a significant trend towards increased investment in automation technologies. Trends in B2B Marketing Automation Spending The increased focus on marketing automation is reflected in the spending plans of B2B marketers. Meanwhile, a survey of 207 B2B…

In a strategic move to bolster marketing automation in the retail sector, Verb has entered into a partnership with Listrak. The collaboration is set to leverage AI-powered platforms to enhance customer shopping experiences by delivering personalized interactions via email, SMS, and web channels. This initiative underscores a growing emphasis on customer relationship management and aims to increase personalization and retention rates among consumers.

Leveraging AI for Enhanced Shopping Experiences

The partnership between Verb and Listrak is poised to transform how retailers engage with their customers. By utilizing AI-driven technologies, the collaboration aims to create personalized shopping experiences that cater to individual consumer preferences. This technology will enable retailers to tailor their marketing efforts, ensuring that customers receive relevant and timely communications through various digital channels, including email, SMS, and web platforms.

Such advancements are particularly crucial as retailers prepare for major shopping events, like Black Friday. Upcoming campaigns will specifically target Black Friday shoppers, offering them an interactive online experience, notably with the launch of the Ghost collection. These efforts are designed to capture consumer interest and drive engagement during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year.

Trends in B2B Marketing Automation Spending

The increased focus on marketing automation is reflected in the spending plans of B2B marketers. A recent survey of 207 B2B marketing professionals highlighted a significant trend towards increased investment in automation technologies. The primary goals identified by these marketers include improving data quality, identifying ideal customers, and enhancing personalization efforts.

Email marketing was noted as one of the top areas for automation, indicating a strategic focus on optimizing this channel to better connect with customers. The survey results suggest that businesses recognize the value of automation in refining their marketing strategies and improving overall customer engagement.

Industry Developments: Kroger and Online Grocery Shopping

In related industry developments, Kroger has announced the closure of three fulfillment centers located in Wisconsin, Maryland, and Florida. This decision is part of a broader strategy to expand its partnership with Instacart, a move that aligns with the growing trend of online grocery shopping. As part of this initiative, Kroger has also introduced the Cart Assistant AI shopping helper, designed to enhance the online shopping experience for consumers.

Additionally, Kroger's full grocery assortment is now available via DoorDash, further expanding the company's reach in the digital marketplace. This expansion is complemented by a new customer experience on the Uber Eats Marketplace, providing consumers with more convenient options for their grocery needs.

Future Implications for Retail and Marketing

The partnership between Verb and Listrak, along with Kroger's strategic developments, marks a significant shift in the retail and marketing landscape. As companies increasingly adopt AI and automation technologies, the focus is on creating more personalized and efficient shopping experiences for consumers. These advancements not only enhance customer satisfaction but also drive business growth by fostering stronger relationships with customers.

As the retail sector continues to evolve, the integration of sophisticated marketing automation tools will be pivotal in shaping the future of consumer engagement. The ongoing efforts to improve personalization, data quality, and customer identification signal a commitment to leveraging technology for enhanced retail experiences.

The partnership between Verb and Listrak, coupled with evolving industry trends, highlights the critical role of marketing automation in driving retail innovation and consumer engagement.