Global retail technology spending will near $203.6 billion in 2019, according to new research conducted by Tech., an Oct 2–3 event in London focused on prospering in the new retail age. The surge—an anticipated 3.6% leap from 2018—comes as owners of physical stores strive to add an advanced digital dimension to offline shopping, among other priorities. The need to engage customers in new ways, while managing stock, operations, and promotions more effectively and cost-efficiently, are also driving up international IT spending.