Salesforce to Acquire PredictSpring, Enhancing Omnichannel Capabilities
Last month, Salesforce finalized an agreement to acquire PredictSpring, a leading provider of point-of-sale (POS) software. PredictSpring, known for its omnichannel commerce solutions, offers a suite of mobile POS systems along with clienteling, inventory management, and order management tools tailored for the retail sector.
Insights from Industry Analysts
In a recent episode of CX Today’s BIG News Update, key analysts shared their perspectives on the acquisition, highlighting three major points.
Filling a Critical Gap
Rebecca Wetteman, CEO & Principal Analyst at Valoir, noted that while Salesforce has effectively assisted many B2B clients, such as Fiserv and Peloton, in transitioning to B2C strategies, one crucial component was missing: order management. PredictSpring’s solutions address this gap, enhancing Salesforce’s data strategy and providing a more comprehensive customer view. Wetteman stated, “This addition is a significant move for Salesforce, strengthening their position beyond B2B and bridging the B2B to B2C divide.”
Advancing Omnichannel Retail
Simon Harrison, Founder & CEO at Actionary, emphasized that the acquisition represents a major step forward in delivering effective omnichannel solutions. PredictSpring’s technology promises to solve challenges associated with integrating in-store and digital experiences, enhancing overall customer interactions. Harrison praised the investment, stating, “This is a smart move, addressing real-world issues and increasing value for both staff and customers in today’s dynamic retail environment.”
Expanding Market Reach
Martin Schnieder, VP and Principal Analyst at Constellation Research, pointed out that acquiring PredictSpring aligns with Salesforce’s strategy to expand its total addressable market (TAM). He highlighted retail as a sector with unique challenges and opportunities, where Salesforce’s Data Cloud and platform can create impactful vertical-specific solutions. Schnieder noted, “Retail offers a different model with constrained margins, and Salesforce can leverage its platform to provide substantial value.”
Michael Fauscette, Founder, CEO, and Chief Analyst at Arion Research, observed that Salesforce is strategically acquiring startups to fill gaps in its vertical offerings. He remarked, “Salesforce’s approach involves identifying startups that address specific needs and integrating them into their ecosystem. This strategy has proven effective and allows Salesforce to go to market directly with these partners, a practice not always seen among enterprise vendors.”
Conclusion
Salesforce’s acquisition of PredictSpring is a strategic move to enhance its omnichannel capabilities and address key gaps in its offerings. By integrating PredictSpring’s advanced POS solutions, Salesforce aims to strengthen its position in the retail sector and continue its growth trajectory in both B2B and B2C markets.
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