New research finds that many retail workers don't feel like their technology needs are being met by employers. 

Swiss technology company Scandit surveyed 2,000 store associates in seven countries across nine sectors, uncovering what they described as a "crucial gap" for workers. 

The survey found that 40% of respondents feel that their employers don’t invest in their tech needs, with 20% actively feeling it’s a non-priority, Scandit said. It also found that 41% said that access to "modern, easy-to-use" technology was one of the top drivers of worker loyalty. 

When it comes to onboarding and acclimating to unfamiliar tech, 34% said that becoming proficient can take two weeks. Another 30% said that that process could take up to a month.

This all ties into a retail landscape where businesses have had to navigate the effects of a post-COVID world, Scandit co-founder and CEO Samuel Mueller said.

"Increased consumer pressure, operational efficiency requirements, ongoing labor shortages and the advent of AI have required retailers to rethink how they attract, retain and motivate store associates," he added. "Our research reveals workers’ concerns, and how retailers can optimize technology investments to drive employee loyalty, automate tedious tasks and ultimately boost profitability." 

The rise of artificial intelligence had respondents particularly apprehensive, with half saying they're concerned about how AI and automation could lead to them losing their jobs. Nearly 70% said they don't believe AI will "positively impact" their role.