Many traditional retailers will struggle to keep pace over the next decade unless they can swiftly develop a deeper, more intimate and long-term relationship with consumers.

The growth of near-field communications technology is one key to realizing the promise of mobile commerce. But industry players now have to find the right ways to encourage merchants to participate.

The same technology that gives shoppers unprecedented choice also keeps their demands in constant flux. How can brick-and-mortar retailers remain relevant?