Zebra Technologies Corporation - ZBRA STOCK NEWS

Rack Room Shoes has achieved significant operational improvements by implementing Zebra Technologies (NASDAQ: ZBRA) Workcloud Task Management software and mobile computing solutions. The retailer, operating over 500 stores across 36 states, has reached a 95% task completion rate despite a fourfold increase in task volume since 2018.

The implementation addressed previous communication challenges where store-corporate interaction was to email, leading to outdated directives and work forecasting difficulties. The new system allows store employees to view assigned tasks on Zebra mobile devices in a calendar format, while corporate teams can monitor completion progress in real-time.

This technological upgrade aligns with findings from Zebra's 17th Annual Global Shopper Study, which revealed that 70% of shoppers struggle to find store associates for assistance, and 90% of retailers face challenges in effective communication.

Zebra Technologies (NASDAQ: ZBRA) has announced several new AI innovations for the retail industry, set to showcase at NRF 2025. The company introduced the Zebra Mobile Computing AI Suite, enabling easy integration of vision AI capabilities into mobile applications, and Zebra Companion, a comprehensive suite of AI agents launching in Q2 2025.

Zebra Companion includes four specialized agents: Knowledge agent for job aids and SOPs, Sales agent for product-related assistance, Device agent for maintenance support, and Merchandising agent for shelf health assessment. The company also unveiled new solutions including Workcloud Sync for team communication, Dimensioning Mobile Parcel for rapid parcel measurement, EM45 RFID Enterprise Mobile device, new MC3400 and MC3450 mobile computers, and a modular Kiosk System for self-service options.

Zebra Technologies (NASDAQ: ZBRA) has been recognized as a Major Player in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Retail Promotions Management 2024-2025 Vendor Assessment. The company's Workcloud Demand Intelligence Suite received praise for its markdown optimization capabilities and effective customer success teams.

The solution leverages supply chain, labor, and inventory data algorithms to enable accurate forecasts and analyze demand, helping retailers anticipate consumer trends and make informed decisions. The suite's key features include the ability to boost profitability, minimize markdowns through AI and machine learning, and enable intelligent forecasting across digital and physical channels.

IDC highlighted Zebra's directed view of markdown optimization, noting its effectiveness in enabling markdown price points and optimizing markdown depth across promotions and similarly priced products. The solution can automate custom markdowns based on produce rules and entire categories, making it particularly valuable for fashion retailers.

Zebra Technologies (NASDAQ: ZBRA) has announced its intention to acquire Photoneo, a leading developer of 3D machine vision solutions. The acquisition aims to expand Zebra's presence in the fastest-growing 3D segment of the Machine Vision market. The combination will enhance Zebra's portfolio by integrating Photoneo's intelligent sensors and parallel structured light technology with Zebra's advanced sensors and AI-based capabilities.

The merger will address high-value applications including bin picking, depalletizing, digital twin creation, and object inspection in automotive manufacturing and logistics. The acquisition follows Zebra's strategic investment in Matrox Imaging in June 2022 and builds upon an existing OEM relationship with Photoneo established in 2024. The transaction is expected to close in Q1 2025, with financial terms undisclosed.

Zebra Technologies (NASDAQ: ZBRA) has been recognized on Forbes' inaugural list of Most Trusted Companies in America, ranking #263 among the top 300 U.S. companies. The recognition is based on comprehensive data analysis across four key domains: employee trust, customer trust, investor trust, and media sentiment.

The company's Culture Connect platform provides employees with resources including training courses and personalized learning plans. Zebra's technology solutions enable businesses to connect data, assets, and people in real-time, serving multiple industries by helping frontline workers become more productive and efficient.

The Forbes ranking considered only U.S.-based public companies with over 1,000 employees, evaluating data from partners including Glassdoor, HundredX, and Signal AI.

Zebra Technologies commissioned a Coresight Research report revealing that approximately 7.7 million retail employees (one-third of U.S. retail workforce) lack exclusive access to mobile devices. The study shows that 40% of employees at large retailers must share devices or work without them, particularly affecting store operations (42%), merchandising (37%), and store floor staff (34%).

Retailers acknowledge that providing dedicated mobile devices could significantly improve operational efficiency, employee satisfaction, and customer service. Nearly 90% of associates reported feeling more valued when provided with technology tools, according to Zebra's Annual Global Shopper Study.

Zebra Technologies released its 17th Annual Global Shopper Study, revealing significant concerns about retail loss prevention. The study shows that 84% of retail associates are worried about theft and crime, while 78% of retailers face pressure to minimize losses. To address these challenges, retailers are investing in technology solutions including AI, cameras, sensors, and RFID systems.

The study also highlights a decline in shopper satisfaction, dropping from 85% in 2023 to 81% for in-store and 79% for online shopping experiences. Key issues include product accessibility, staff availability, and self-checkout limitations. In response, 75% of retailers plan to increase technology investments in 2025, focusing on mobile workforce efficiency, inventory management, and customer experience enhancement.

Zebra Technologies (NASDAQ: ZBRA) has announced its participation in the Stephens Annual Investment Conference in Nashville. The presentation is scheduled for Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. Central Time. Interested parties can access the live webcast through the Events section of Zebra's investor relations website at investors.zebra.com. The presentation will also be available for replay on the same platform. Zebra Technologies is known for providing digital solutions that enable businesses to connect data, assets, and people intelligently.

Zebra Technologies (NASDAQ: ZBRA) reported strong Q3 2024 results with net sales of $1,255 million, up 31.3% year-over-year. Net income reached $137 million with earnings per diluted share of $2.64. The company saw significant improvements in gross margin, reaching 48.8%, and completed restructuring actions expected to generate $120 million in annual cost savings. Both Enterprise Visibility & Mobility and Asset Intelligence & Tracking segments showed strong organic growth of 33.0% and 25.8% respectively. The company raised its full-year outlook, projecting Q4 sales growth between 28-31% and expects full-year free cash flow of at least $850 million.