This year, three standout themes dominated the conversation EuroCIS 2025 in Düsseldorf: AI-driven content automation, the integration of IoT into digital signage and the power of sensor-driven data analytics.
Jonas Wilhelm, ZetaDisplay Country Director, Austria, shares his thoughts on how these trends will impact retail, corporate environments and QSR businesses in 2025 and beyond.
AI-Supported Digital Signage: A Leap Toward Personalization
One of the biggest shifts we saw was the rise of AI-supported digital signage. AI is transforming how brands curate, automate and personalize content—bringing retailers and QSRs closer than ever to their customers.
- Hyper-Personalized Advertising
AI-driven content systems can adjust messaging in real-time based on customer demographics, foot traffic and even external factors like weather. Imagine a QSR display dynamically promoting iced coffees on a hot day or a retail store showcasing winter jackets as temperatures drop. AI removes the guesswork from content scheduling and ensures maximum relevance and impact.
- Automated Content Management
Gone are the days of manually updating digital signage. AI-powered solutions can now scan sales data, stock levels, and customer engagement metrics to automatically generate and publish content. This means no more empty promotions on out-of-stock items—a game-changer for retailers optimizing their omnichannel strategies.
The IoT and Digital Signage Connection: A Smarter Ecosystem
IoT (Internet of Things) is no longer just a buzzword—it’s actively reshaping digital signage infrastructure. At EuroCIS, it was clear that IoT-enabled devices are becoming more deeply integrated into signage networks, creating more intelligent and connected experiences.
- Seamless Retail Integration
Retailers are beginning to connect digital signage with smart shelves, RFID systems and POS data, ensuring that displayed promotions align with real-time stock levels. This means no more advertising products that are already sold out—improving both customer experience and operational efficiency.
- Smart Store Environments
We also saw smart store innovations where IoT devices trigger digital signage interactions. For example, as a customer approaches a specific aisle, signage automatically adjusts to display relevant promotions or product details—enhancing engagement while streamlining the path to purchase.
- Connected Corporate Spaces
In corporate settings, IoT-powered meeting room signage is evolving. Screens are now integrating with room booking systems, climate controls, and occupancy sensors, ensuring efficient space management and employee productivity.
Sensor-Driven Data Analytics: Measuring Impact in Real Time
The third major takeaway from EuroCIS 2025 was the rapid development of sensor technology and data analytics—a game-changer for proving digital signage ROI and optimizing content strategies.
- Advanced Footfall and Dwell-Time Analysis
Retailers and QSR brands are now leveraging sensor technology to track foot traffic patterns and customer dwell time. These insights allow businesses to refine signage placement and content based on real-world behavioral data.
- Trigger-Based Content Adjustments
Imagine a sensor detecting high in-store traffic, automatically triggering digital signage to promote impulse buys or limited-time offers. Or in corporate offices, a low footfall in communal areas could prompt digital signage to display content that encourages collaboration or well-being initiatives.
- Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Sensor-driven analytics aren’t just about engagement—they’re also helping brands go green. Digital signage can now adjust brightness or power down screens when no one is nearby, reducing energy consumption and operational costs.
Want to explore how these trends can elevate your business? Let’s connect and discuss how ZetaDisplay can help you future-proof your digital signage strategy.