Deep DiveAI Insights: How World Models, VLA and Physical AI Advance Retail Automation Charlie Poon, Analyst Sector Lead: John Harmon, CFA, Associate Director of Technology Research February 16, 2026 Reasons to ReadDiscover how world models and physical AI are redefining retail automation from reactive workflows to fully autonomous, adaptive operations. Read this report to discover answers to these and other questions: How can world models turn retail supply chains from reactive to proactive? How does physical AI unlock robotics to become adaptive with embodied agents? What does full-stack physical AI mean for a fully autonomous supply chain and in-store experience? How is physical AI transforming in-store experience and dynamic merchandising through shelf intelligence and customer insights? Other relevant research: Visit the Coresight Research Retail Technology Hub to explore reports, data and competitive landscapes on technology. Already a subscriber? Log in You are currently viewing a preview of this report. Please select an access option to view the full report. Hide Options - Show Options + Get unlimited access to all our research with one of our subscription plans. View Subscription Plans or Contact us to purchase this report. Contact us ✕ This document was generated for Other research you may be interested in: US Store Openings and Closures Midyear 2025 Review and Outlook: Where Does Retail Real Estate Stand in a Year of Disruption? InfographicThree Data Points We’re Watching This Week, Week 19: China and US Consumer Sentiment in FocusConsumer Sentiment Largely Holds Steady in December After November Highs: China Consumer Survey InsightsRetail-Tech Landscape: Israel—February 2026 Update
