2026 will prove whether AI checkout is here to stay
This Modern Retail article examines whether AI-powered checkout can move beyond experimentation and become a lasting part of retail operations. It highlights the balance between innovation, trust, and customer experience. Connect with CIO Main Street to discuss how AI can support the future of work in customer-facing environments.
According to a Deloitte survey, 65% of CIOs now report directly to CEOs, a significant increase from 41% a decade ago. This shift indicates a transformation in how technology leadership is perceived within organizations.
CIOs as Strategic Leaders
The research shows that 66% of CIOs who report directly to the CEO believe this positioning enables them to contribute to driving business strategy and results, reflecting their evolving role from technical managers to strategic leaders.
Perception of Tech Departments
The survey reveals a split perception of tech departments, with 52% of respondents viewing them as revenue generators, while 48% see them primarily as service centers. This division highlights the ongoing debate about the role of technology in driving business growth.

2026 will prove whether AI checkout is here to stay
published by CIO Main Street
CIO Main Street is a Computer, Network, and Information Technology Consulting company that brings Chief Information Officer services to Main Street America. At CIO Main Street, we speak Windows, we speak Mac, but best of all we speak Human!
We help organizations by asking a few questions. What do you want technology to do for you today? And what can you imagine it doing for you in the future? Notice that we do not say bits and bytes. Or hardware/software?
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