At a glance

• Field service trends for the first half of 2025 included continued growth in sectors such as data centers, AV systems, Windows upgrades, and low-voltage cabling.
• Retail-driven field service work remains steady, with remodels and system upgrades tied to store closures and new tenant activity.
• Break/fix and lifecycle services are on the rise, as organizations shift from capital projects to maintaining existing systems.
• Key field service challenges in 2025 include tariffs, high interest rates, and technician shortages—factors that also shape 2026 planning.

As we move into the second half of 2025, the themes are familiar: economic uncertainty, cost pressure, and market volatility. Yet, field service demand continues to grow in many categories.

Here’s a look at the tailwinds supporting field service activity—and the headwinds that could limit it.Tailwinds create field service opportunities

Growth areas to watch

Many segments of field service are expanding, even in a cautious market. Data centers remain a bright spot, fueled by ongoing investment in cloud infrastructure and AI capabilities. The global data center construction market will grow at 11.8% through 2030, according to industry estimates.

Other work types—such as physical security systems and AV upgrades—show continued demand. AV is already tracking ahead of last year, with over 37,000 work orders completed in the first half of 2025, reflecting renewed investment in meeting rooms and digital signage.

Windows device work is surging, driven by concerns about tariff-related price increases and the upcoming end-of-life for Windows 10. More than 62,000 device-type work orders were completed in the first half of 2025, as SMBs move quickly to upgrade devices for better security and compatibility.

Low-voltage cabling is gaining traction due to infrastructure upgrades, store reconfigurations, and rising demand for connected environments. Nearly 56,000 work orders for cable testing and runs have already been completed in 2025.

Steady demand from retail store activity

Retail continues to be a key driver of field service work, even as store openings and closures reshuffle the landscape.

Core retail sales have grown 4.2% year-over-year, according to the National Retail Federation. Over 9,900 store closures have been announced since early 2024, but many of these were long-expected exits from struggling brands. Meanwhile, space vacated by these closures is already attracting new tenants. 

This activity fuels consistent demand for decommissioning, remodels, and system upgrades, particularly across signage, cabling, POS, and access control. For field service teams, the work remains steady, even if the banners above the doors are changing.

Increased focus on lifecycle services

With some large capital projects on hold, many businesses are shifting to maintenance and repair. Break/fix work, preventative maintenance, and asset extension services are seeing renewed interest. This shift allows service organizations to strengthen relationships by helping customers keep existing systems running reliably.

Headwinds pressure business investment

Impacts from trade shifts

Recent trade policy shifts, such as tariffs, are raising costs for imported equipment and materials across the field service landscape. Some companies accelerated purchases earlier in the year, while others are waiting out the uncertainty. Either way, the ripple effects are slowing project timelines and increasing cost sensitivity across the board.

High cost of capital and macroeconomic strain

Borrowing costs remain elevated, with interest rates between 4.5% and 5%. The Federal Reserve has held rates steady, and it is concerned that lowering rates could reignite inflation. At the same time, first-quarter GDP fell 0.2%, partly due to a surge of imports ahead of price increases. Economists surveyed by the Wall Street Journal now see a 33% chance of recession, up from 22% earlier this year. These factors are causing many businesses to delay or scale back spending on field service projects.

Persistent technician shortages

Labor remains a constraint. While overall unemployment remains low at 4.1%, field service organizations continue to face technician shortages in certain skill areas and geographic regions. The challenge is most acute for complex, multi-site work and time-sensitive projects. As demand in specific sectors continues, the ability to flex labor capacity remains a key differentiator.

Strategic considerations for field service leaders

Work order activity remains strong on the Field Nation platform, with 631,000 work orders completed through June. In a shifting market, field service leaders must adjust their strategies to stay ahead.

Dig deeper into market signals: Avoid relying on broad economic headlines alone. Analyze growth and contraction at the segment level to see which sectors, store types, or regions drive work and which are slowing down.

Strengthen lifecycle services: As capital budgets tighten, prioritize services that help customers maintain and extend existing systems. Proactive break/fix, preventative maintenance, and performance upgrades can build stronger relationships without heavy upfront spending.

Flex your capacity: Keep on-demand labor options in place to handle seasonal peaks, store rationalization, or project changes linked to trade policy shifts. A flexible model allows you to adjust quickly.

Prioritize speed: In a volatile environment, responding fast can set you apart. Completing projects ahead of pricing changes or seasonal surges positions you as a trusted partner.

Power your projects with a flexible workforce

Field Nation makes scaling your capacity and responding to changing needs easy. Connect with our team to see how you can prepare for what’s next.

Get a complete view of 2025 trends →
Deep dive into 1H2025 trends
The definitive guide to field service trends

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Market trends driving break/fix demand

Extended asset life has become the new reality in field services, with equipment refresh cycles stretching to 5 to 7+ years. Companies are deliberately postponing hardware refreshes in response to short-term budget constraints and rising concerns around tariffs.

This trend has been building for some time, as equipment becomes more modular and upgradeable, and as cloud infrastructure reduces the wear on on-premises devices.

Break/fix work provides a steady flow of service opportunities. While other types of field service work can be highly seasonal, repairs remain steady year-round, especially as more organizations focus on maintaining aging assets instead of replacing them.
Placeholder graphic for inspiration

But steady work doesn’t necessarily mean steady margins, as service delivery costs continue to climb:

• Hourly rates for field service technicians have increased 12% or more year over year
• Equipment costs have increased 5-15%, with some estimates as high as 35%
• SLAs are tightening, with response times now measured in hours versus days as business dependence on technology intensifies

The result? Greater pressure on service providers to deliver efficiently.

Break/fix work is reactive, but your process shouldn’t be

Break/fix work often moves fast. Tight SLAs, quick turnarounds, and shifting schedules can leave little room for error. When the right systems aren’t in place, it’s easy for small gaps to create bigger headaches. Common challenges include:

• Work orders that lack key details or consistency
• Delays in assigning jobs or approving completed work
• Communication missteps that lead to confusion on-site
• Unclear expectations for parts logistics or documentation

But here’s the good news: with the right structure and support, these issues are preventable. A well-run break/fix program can bring predictability and performance to even the most time-sensitive repairs.

Boost technician utilization with break/fix work

Maximizing your workforce’s efficiency is critical to keeping pace with rising costs. When analyzing productivity metrics using marketplace data, we’ve discovered a significant opportunity: break/fix work can strategically boost overall technician utilization rates. On-demand break/fix work brings operational flexibility that helps smooth technician workloads across fluctuating project demands.

Here’s why that matters: A drop in utilization has an exponential impact on gross margin.

• At 85% utilization, gross margin is typically around 35%
• At 60% utilization, gross margin drops dramatically to just 10%

Our analysis shows that profitability suffers significantly when technician utilization falls below 75%. This is where on-demand break/fix work provides a valuable solution. It can fill gaps in technician schedules and maintain higher utilization rates to preserve margins.

Turn break/fix into a strategic advantage

When the right systems are in place, break/fix work becomes more predictable and easier to scale. With clear processes, consistent communication, and the right technician support, you’re in a better position to deliver, no matter what the market throws your way.

Ready to strengthen your break/fix approach? Contact our team to explore what’s possible.

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AI-powered guest experiences

With the global market for AI in hospitality projected to grow at a CAGR of 30.1%, businesses are investing heavily in AI-enabled concierge services, chatbots, and automation that streamline customer interactions. From seamless hotel check-ins to virtual shopping assistants in retail and personalized menus at restaurants, AI is elevating service while helping manage costs. 

The rise of smart kiosks & self-service

We’re seeing growing adoption of self-checkout stations, micro-market kiosks, and guest-facing vending solutions. These innovations bring retail-style convenience into hospitality settings and reflect a broader shift toward smaller, tech-enabled formats.

Connected infrastructure & frictionless operations

Behind the scenes, hotels are modernizing with automated fulfillment systems, Wi-Fi 7 upgrades, and sensor-based technologies. These tools support real-time data and system integration to streamline operations and improve the guest experience.

Learn more about the trends driving demand in hospitality

Want to dive deeper into how these trends are impacting field service? Check out our recent blog where we explore the six retail and hospitality trends shaping the field service industry.

Attending HITEC 2025? Let’s connect. 

We’d love to hear which trends you’re most excited about, and explore how on-demand labor can help you meet the rising demand with confidence. Book a meeting with us today!

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Despite the growing demand for AI and related technologies, supply chain disruptions, escalating labor shortages, and weakened global IT spending growth (2025 IDC forecast recently cut in half, from 10% to 5%) are anticipated in the coming weeks and months.

These pressures reshape how CIOs, operations leaders, and service providers think about strategy, timing, costs, and execution now and in the future. With uncertainty looming, three factors converge to create a critical inflection point for field service.

What’s driving the urgency?

This isn’t just a seasonal push or typical refresh cycle. Here are three factors contributing to the current urgency in field service.

1. Tariff turbulence on technology infrastructure
   Despite temporary pauses on products and shifting strategies, the financial pressure is already hitting IT budgets. The U.S. recently introduced tariffs, resulting in higher costs of imported products such as networking equipment, AV hardware, digital signage, and point-of-sale systems. Rather than wait and see, CIOs are accelerating projects to beat cost hikes and secure resources before the next wave of increases.
2. Hardware refresh delays = more maintenance and repair
   Rather than absorb immediate tariff-driven expenses, many companies are delaying new hardware investments. But stretching the life of aging equipment creates new demands — especially for break/fix work and preventive maintenance. These projects require skilled, on-site labor – fast.
3. High-visibility retail initiatives
   For multi-location brands, this season is go-time. Retailers, quick-service restaurants, and financial service providers are preparing for high-traffic months, compliance deadlines, and summer rollouts — all of which require on-site service support. As a result, field service teams are under pressure to act quickly and complete projects within a critical window between April and June. 

The ripple effect across the service chain

No matter where you sit in the service ecosystem – as an MSP, national solution provider, or in-house field ops team – this spike in urgency impacts how work gets done.

• Retailers and CIOs are adjusting procurement strategies to lock in pricing and complete deployments before Q3.
• Project managers are shifting focus to tactical wins and breaking large initiatives into smaller, high-impact deployments.
• Field service leaders are leaning on flexible labor models to support fluctuating demand without committing to long-term overhead.
• Technicians and independent contractors are seeing increased opportunity for work, while also experiencing compressed timelines.

How field service leaders can stay ahead

When timelines shrink and demand spikes, agility becomes the ultimate differentiator. To stay ahead, field service leaders must take proactive steps to strengthen and future-proof their operations. Here’s what you can do now:

Steps leaders can take now

• Reevaluate your labor strategy: Assess your current labor mix to ensure you have the right balance of full-time employees and independent contractors. Building in flexibility can help you respond quickly to changing service demands.
• Negotiate more flexible SLAs: Update service level agreements to allow for quicker response times, broader technician pools, or more adaptable project scopes when necessary.
• Prioritize critical projects: Identify which initiatives are most vulnerable to external pressures (such as tariff increases or supply chain disruptions) and allocate resources strategically.
• Diversify your service offerings: Expanding into adjacent service categories can help mitigate risk, improve resilience, and open new revenue streams during periods of market volatility.

Partner with Field Nation and take on what’s next

Field service leaders are operating under more pressure than ever with rising tariffs, shrinking budgets, and shifting timelines. Delayed hardware refreshes, growing maintenance backlogs, and leaner teams have made agility and speed essential. At the same time, leadership teams are reevaluating long-standing strategies, seeking clarity in the midst of uncertainty.

But pressure can create opportunity. By moving decisively — rethinking resourcing models, accelerating high-impact projects, and embracing flexible service delivery — leaders can not only navigate this moment, but emerge stronger, more efficient, and better positioned for what’s next. Field Nation can help you meet this moment quickly, confidently, and clearly.

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We heard about the shift from legacy, on-prem systems to the cloud. Businesses are quickly adopting UCaaS, cloud-based VoIP, video messaging, and collaboration tools—and they need on-site support to make it happen.

That’s creating a huge opportunity for field service providers to step in with hands-on installation, troubleshooting, and hardware setup. With the mobile VOIP market expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.9% over the next several years, field service leaders can expect an increase in demand for VoIP phone system rollouts, router and network gear installation, on-prem device replacement, and cloud migration support.

In fact, thanks to expanded connectivity solutions like Starlink, even rural businesses can now adopt modern cloud tools. At the show, we spoke with one Market Service Provider who’s deploying over 700 Starlink systems per month—bringing broadband into areas that previously couldn’t support cloud voice and video platforms.

As the demand for UCaaS, VoIP, and cloud infrastructure deployments grows, so does the need for skilled field technicians who can support it. Field Nation connects MSPs with independent field service pros across the country—ready to tackle jobs in both urban and remote areas.

Whether it’s a 50-site VoIP rollout or a one-off router install in a rural clinic, Field Nation helps you find the right tech, fast—so you can say “yes” to more work.

Ready to scale smarter, faster, and further? Learn more about Field Nation today.

The post Channel Partners 2025 recap: New opportunities in cloud communication appeared first on Field Nation.

AI’s impact on on-site IT field service projects

AI is driving a wave of new infrastructure needs, particularly for organizations investing in machine learning, automation, and real-time analytics. IT field technicians are now tasked with more complex on-site projects, including:

1. AI-optimized data center installations

Many enterprises are upgrading their data centers to support AI workloads, requiring on-site teams to:

• Deploy AI-optimized servers with GPUs, TPUs, or FPGAs.
• Implement liquid cooling solutions for high-performance AI hardware.
• Upgrade networking infrastructure to support high-speed data processing.

2. Edge computing deployments

With AI applications moving to the edge (closer to the data source), IT field technicians are increasingly responsible for setting up and maintaining:

• AI-powered IoT networks in smart factories and industrial facilities.
• On-premises AI inferencing servers in healthcare, retail, and finance.
• Edge AI devices for autonomous vehicles, logistics, and real-time analytics.

3. AI-enabled security and surveillance systems

AI-powered security is becoming a top priority for businesses and government agencies. IT field service teams are deploying and maintaining:

• Smart surveillance cameras with AI-driven facial recognition and behavior analysis.
• AI-enhanced access control systems with biometric authentication.
• AI-driven cybersecurity hardware for real-time threat detection.

4. Predictive maintenance & automated diagnostics

AI-driven predictive maintenance is reducing downtime across industries. IT field technicians are now tasked with:

• Installing AI-powered monitoring systems on industrial equipment.
• Implementing IoT sensors to detect anomalies and preemptively address failures.
• Integrating AI-powered analytics platforms with enterprise maintenance workflows.

Industries experiencing the most impact

Several industries are seeing a significant increase in AI-driven IT field service needs:

1. Manufacturing & industrial automation

The manufacturing industry is turning to AI-powered robotics and automation systems to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime and improve predictive maintenance. This demand will require field service technicians to provide services for AI-enabled IoT devices, real-time analytics, and edge computing infrastructure.

2. Healthcare & life sciences

The healthcare industry is leveraging AI for diagnostics, personalized treatment, and operational efficiency, requiring IT technicians and field service companies to deploy, maintain, and secure AI-driven medical devices, imaging systems, and data platforms.

3. Retail & E-commerce

Retailers and e-commerce companies are adopting AI for inventory management, customer personalization, and automated checkout, increasing the need for field service providers to install and support AI-powered POS systems, robotics, and smart logistics solutions.

4. Financial services & banking

Financial institutions are using AI for fraud detection, risk assessment, and automated customer service. To meet this demand, skilled IT technicians will need to be able to implement, troubleshoot, and secure AI-driven analytics platforms, biometric authentication systems, and fintech solutions.

5. Telecommunications & smart cities

AI is optimizing network performance, traffic flow, energy efficiency, and public safety, increasing demand for field service providers to install, maintain, and secure AI-powered IoT devices, 5G infrastructure, smart grids, and intelligent transportation systems.

How IT field service leaders are using AI to optimize operations

AI isn’t just reshaping the services IT field teams provide—it’s also improving how field service leaders manage their own businesses. Forward-thinking IT service providers are leveraging AI to:

1. Automate scheduling and workforce optimization

AI-powered workforce management tools are helping field service teams:

• Optimize technician scheduling based on traffic patterns, skill sets, and job priority.
• Use predictive analytics to anticipate demand and reduce last-minute disruptions.
• Automate dispatching for faster response times and improved customer satisfaction.

2. Enhance remote troubleshooting & augmented reality (AR) support

AI is enabling IT field technicians to diagnose and resolve issues remotely before dispatching on-site support:

• AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants provide initial troubleshooting for customers.
• AR solutions powered by AI guide technicians through complex repairs with real-time overlays.

3. Predict equipment failures before they happen

AI-driven predictive maintenance isn’t just for customers—it’s also being used internally:

• AI analyzes historical data to predict when field service tools and vehicles need maintenance.
• Automated alerts notify managers about potential equipment failures before they disrupt service operations.

4. Streamline inventory & parts management

AI-powered inventory systems help field service leaders:

• Automatically track and replenish high-demand parts.
• Use predictive analytics to forecast supply chain needs based on service trends.
• Reduce unnecessary stockpiling while ensuring technicians have the right equipment on hand.

5. Improve customer experience & SLA compliance

AI-powered analytics help IT field service companies:

• Identify patterns in customer service requests to improve response times.
• Monitor and enforce service level agreements (SLAs) with real-time performance tracking.
• Use sentiment analysis to gauge customer satisfaction and proactively address issues.

Embracing AI and on-demand talent for a more streamlined field service strategy

AI is fundamentally transforming IT field services, not only by driving demand for specialized on-site expertise but also by reshaping how field service companies operate. From AI-optimized data centers and edge computing deployments to predictive maintenance and security upgrades, technicians must stay ahead of evolving technology needs. Meanwhile, AI-powered tools are helping field service leaders automate scheduling, enhance troubleshooting, and improve operational efficiency—allowing them to reduce costs, increase first-time fix rates, and deliver better customer experiences.

To stay competitive, IT service organizations need both intelligent automation and agile workforce strategies. By leveraging on-demand labor marketplaces like Field Nation, field service companies can scale their technician networks with skilled professionals exactly where and when they’re needed—ensuring AI-powered service delivery is as efficient and effective as the technology itself.

Ready to optimize your field service strategy? Explore our coverage map to find skilled providers in the zip codes you need.

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1. The expanding role of automation in IT services

One of the biggest challenges for field service companies is balancing increased demand with limited resources. One of the sessions covered at Channel Partners, Maximizing Efficiency: Scaling IT Operations with Automation and Advanced Network Technologies, explores how automation and advanced network solutions are transforming IT operations.

At Field Nation, we’ve seen that automation isn’t just about streamlining workflows—it’s about enhancing agility in the face of an ongoing skilled technician shortage. With a worker deficit of 2.6 million across service sectors and an aging workforce where half of all field service technicians are now over 50, organizations are increasingly turning to automation to bridge the gap. By optimizing scheduling, reducing manual workloads, and enabling remote troubleshooting, automation helps service organizations maximize existing resources while maintaining efficiency.

2. MSP megatrends: understanding the IT services market

The IT services industry is more complex than ever, and managed service providers must evolve to capture new opportunities. In Hot Data: MSP Megatrends – Making Sense of the $5.4T IT Market, Canalys Chief Analyst Jay McBain will provide key insights into where service dollars are flowing and how businesses can position themselves for success.

At Field Nation, we’ve seen several key areas driving increased demand for field service. Data center expansion continues at a rapid pace, while security and surveillance technology are also evolving—especially as businesses integrate AI-powered analytics and real-time monitoring into their operations. Meanwhile, retail technology is transforming as stores implement smart inventory systems, self-service kiosks, and flexible POS solutions to enhance the customer experience. 

3. The future of healthcare & technology-enabled service models

With the healthcare industry quickly changing, technology is essential in improving patient care and operational efficiency. The session Future of Healthcare: Driving Customer Experience and Communication Innovation will explore how unified communications, AI-driven analytics, and CCaaS solutions are reshaping the healthcare landscape.

The retailization of healthcare—where large retailers incorporate clinics into their stores—is driving demand for digital signage, kiosks, and IT infrastructure to enhance patient engagement and operational efficiency. Field Nation data shows a 46% year-over-year increase in digital signage and AV work orders, reflecting this shift. As healthcare integrates more advanced technology, field service teams play a critical role in ensuring seamless installations, maintenance, and system upgrades to support this growing sector.

Visit Field Nation at Channel Partners

These key themes align with the trends shaping field service in 2025: rising complexity, workforce shortages, and the need for operational efficiency. At Field Nation, we’re helping businesses adapt by providing access to a marketplace of on-demand talent, flexible workforce strategies, and scalable service solutions.

If you’re attending Channel Partners, let’s connect! Book a time with us or visit booth #1556 to discuss how the Field Nation marketplace can support your service delivery strategy in an increasingly dynamic market.

The post The top 3 field service trends to watch for at Channel Partners 2025 appeared first on Field Nation.

The growth of the videoconferencing market

One of the most significant indicators of this shift is the rapid expansion of the videoconferencing market. According to Precedence Research, the U.S. videoconference market is projected to reach $8.38 billion by 2034, fueled by evolving enterprise needs and the push toward remote and hybrid work environments. Businesses are no longer simply installing standalone conferencing systems; instead, they are integrating cloud-based platforms that connect seamlessly with corporate IT networks, improving scalability and security.

Standardization through “room-in-a-box” solutions

As traditional A/V expertise shifts towards IT-centric capabilities, organizations are increasingly adopting “Room-in-a-box” solutions—pre-configured audiovisual packages that integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructure. These solutions simplify deployment and management, offering more predictable costs and maintenance requirements compared to traditional custom installations. Vendors such as Cisco, Crestron, and Logitech are leading the charge, offering bundled solutions designed for interoperability with enterprise networks.

The surge in LED video wall installations

Another major trend shaping the industry is the growing adoption of LED video walls across corporate offices, retail stores, entertainment venues, and public spaces. LED technology has advanced significantly, offering brighter displays, lower energy consumption, and seamless connectivity with IoT and digital signage networks. A report from Market Research Future predicts that the global LED video wall market will grow at a CAGR of 11.4% through 2030, demonstrating strong demand for both new installations and system upgrades.

Evolving skillsets for modern A/V service teams

The increasing reliance on networked A/V solutions demands a broader set of skills from field service professionals. No longer confined to traditional hardware expertise, A/V technicians must now possess:

• Advanced networking knowledge – Understanding of IP-based communication protocols and network infrastructure.
• Cybersecurity expertise – Implementing security measures to protect against potential breaches and vulnerabilities.
• Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) proficiency – Deploying and managing devices that receive power and data over network cables.
• Cloud and remote monitoring capabilities – Utilizing software-defined platforms for predictive maintenance and real-time system diagnostics.

Companies that fail to adapt risk falling behind as clients demand more seamless, secure, and IT-friendly A/V installations.

Explore key trends shaping field service—and learn how to stay ahead.

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What’s next for field service leaders?

For field service organizations, this convergence of A/V and IT presents a major growth opportunity. Leaders in the space must take proactive steps to capitalize on this trend, including:

1. Investing in IT Training & Certification – Ensuring service teams are equipped with networking, security, and cloud-based A/V expertise.
2. Partnering with Leading A/V & IT Vendors – Establishing relationships with manufacturers offering cutting-edge, network-integrated solutions.
3. Leveraging Remote Monitoring & Analytics – Using AI-driven diagnostics and predictive maintenance tools to improve service efficiency.
4. Expanding Managed Service Offerings – Shifting from reactive support to subscription-based managed services that provide long-term client value.

The A/V market is evolving rapidly, and those who embrace these changes will position themselves as leaders in the future of smart, connected audiovisual technology. The A/V market represents a significant growth opportunity for service organizations ready to expand their capabilities. Discover how to capture the momentum in our Definitive Guide to Field Service Trends or watch our complete webinar.

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Our marketplace data reveals that certain service segments are experiencing double-digit growth, reflecting shifts in corporate strategies, consumer behaviors, and emerging technologies. From retail transformations to AI-powered security and sustainability initiatives, these trends signal key opportunities for field service organizations to expand their offerings.

Here are the top 10 service categories experiencing rapid growth:

1. Break/fix services

Traditional break/fix work remains essential as companies extend asset lifecycles and adapt maintenance strategies to manage costs. Companies are prioritizing cost efficiency and asset longevity, leading to increased demand for repair and maintenance services. Organizations are extending the lifecycles of their equipment and adjusting maintenance strategies to minimize capital expenditures while ensuring operational reliability.

2. Mobile POS installations

Retailers are shifting toward smaller store formats and omnichannel experiences, driving demand for mobile point-of-sale (POS) installations. Quick-service restaurants, convenience stores, and specialty retailers are investing in flexible POS systems to enhance customer transactions and streamline operations.

3. Small format conference rooms

The rise of hybrid work models has accelerated the adoption of “Room in a Box” solutions—standardized, plug-and-play conference room setups with integrated audio-visual and IT solutions. Businesses are investing in these solutions to create consistent and easy-to-deploy meeting spaces across locations.

4. LED video walls

Digital signage and display technologies are advancing rapidly, making LED video walls a preferred solution for corporate and commercial applications. Businesses are leveraging high-quality visual displays for branding, customer engagement, and enhanced collaboration in workspaces.

5. Wi-Fi access point upgrades

Seamless connectivity is essential for modern operations, and businesses are investing in Wi-Fi infrastructure upgrades to support higher traffic, IoT devices, and cloud-based applications. This surge is particularly evident in retail, hospitality, and enterprise sectors.

6. Data center hot swaps & capacity upgrades

With the rise of AI and cloud computing, data centers are expanding capacity and optimizing efficiency. Hot-swap capabilities—enabling critical system upgrades without downtime—are becoming increasingly important for organizations managing high-demand computing environments.

7. 5G site surveys

The global 5G rollout is accelerating, driving demand for site surveys and infrastructure planning to optimize coverage, network capacity, and deployment strategies for carriers and enterprises.

8. IP camera upgrades

Security technology is evolving beyond traditional surveillance. With retailers reporting a 93% increase in shoplifting incidents, businesses are turning to AI-powered security analytics and advanced IP camera systems to enhance loss prevention and security operations.

9. EV charging station installation

The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has created sustained demand for charging infrastructure. Field service providers are seeing increased opportunities in installation, maintenance, and commissioning of EV charging stations across commercial, municipal, and residential locations.

10. Package locker kiosk installations

The rise of e-commerce and hybrid retail models is fueling the deployment of secure package locker kiosks. Retailers and logistics providers are expanding their use of smart lockers to enhance customer convenience, reduce delivery costs, and minimize package theft.

Explore key trends shaping field service—and learn how to stay ahead.

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The field service landscape is evolving rapidly, with technology-driven service categories leading the way in market growth. From retail transformation and enterprise connectivity to AI-powered security and sustainability, businesses are actively investing in solutions that enhance efficiency and customer experience.

For field service organizations, these high-growth service areas present immediate revenue opportunities.Now is the time to adapt, specialize, and capitalize on these emerging market demands.

Want to learn how to position your business for success? Learn how to capitalize on these emerging service demands in our Definitive Guide to Field Service Trends or watch our complete webinar.

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These mounting losses are driving retailers to move beyond traditional surveillance methods and embrace a more integrated, data-driven approach to security.

Beyond loss prevention: The multi-faceted role of AI-driven security

Modern security systems do more than just deter and document theft—they are transforming the entire retail experience. New IP camera systems powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) offer advanced features such as:

• Real-Time Threat Detection: AI-powered cameras can identify suspicious behavior, recognize repeat offenders, and alert security teams instantly. Some systems even integrate with facial recognition (where legal) to flag known shoplifters.
• Consumer Analytics & Behavior Insights: AI-driven surveillance enables retailers to analyze foot traffic patterns, dwell times, and purchase behaviors, optimizing store layouts for improved customer flow and increased sales.
• Automated Incident Reporting: Integrated security platforms streamline reporting by automatically logging incidents, reducing response times by up to 60% and helping law enforcement act swiftly.

The infrastructure challenge: Scaling security with advanced networks

The shift toward AI-driven security and cloud-based surveillance requires a robust technology infrastructure. Retailers must invest in:

• Power over Ethernet (PoE) Networks: PoE enables IP cameras and sensors to operate with minimal wiring, reducing installation costs by 30% compared to traditional setups.
• Enhanced Wireless Connectivity: Secure, high-bandwidth wireless networks are essential for real-time video transmission and cloud storage, ensuring uninterrupted surveillance.
• Data Encryption & Cybersecurity Measures: With the increase in cloud-based security solutions, cyberattacks on retail networks have risen by 34% in the past two years. Implementing strong encryption protocols and multi-factor authentication (MFA) is critical to prevent breaches.

Retailers are investing in enhanced security

Retailers can combat rising theft with technology-driven security measures. AI-powered surveillance enables real-time threat detection, while optimized store layouts improve visibility to deter theft. Employee training ensures staff can identify risks and use security tools effectively. RFID and smart tags enhance tracking, reducing shrinkage. Strengthening cybersecurity protects cloud-based security systems, and collaborating with law enforcement helps retailers stay ahead of organized retail crime.

Field service leaders must be ready to respond

To help retailers enhance security, IT field service leaders should focus on infrastructure, integration, and ongoing support:

• Optimize AI-Enabled Surveillance: Deploy strategically placed IP cameras with automated alerts and real-time analytics to detect threats without overwhelming network bandwidth.
• Upgrade Network Infrastructure – Strengthen PoE networks, Wi-Fi, and 5G connectivity to support AI-driven surveillance, RFID tracking, and cloud-based security solutions.
• Enhance Staff Training & Support: Provide training on AI security dashboards, threat alerts, and incident reporting procedures, ensuring staff can effectively use security technology.
• Integrate RFID & Smart Tags: Calibrate RFID systems to prevent false alarms, enable real-time inventory tracking, and ensure seamless mobile device compatibility for in-store use.
• Strengthen Cybersecurity: Implement encryption, MFA, and automated patch management to protect security networks from cyber threats and unauthorized access.
• Facilitate Law Enforcement Collaboration Enable real-time data sharing, integrate security logs with case management systems, and provide forensic video storage for investigations.

Conclusion: A data-driven future for retail security

As retail security becomes increasingly data-driven, IT field service leaders play a crucial role in deploying, maintaining, and securing the infrastructure that supports these proactive measures. By focusing on scalable networks, AI-powered surveillance, RFID integration, and cybersecurity, IT teams can help retailers reduce shrinkage, improve operational efficiency, and enhance overall security effectiveness.

Explore key trends shaping field service—and learn how to stay ahead.

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For an in-depth analysis of these and other field service trends, explore our Definitive Guide to Field Service Trends or watch our complete webinar.

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