Signifyd, a commerce protection provider, has introduced Intelligent Returns, a two-solution suite designed to assist retailers across the UK and Europe in managing the increasing complexity and cost associated with product returns. Consumers’ expectations for straightforward return processes, reinforced by consumer rights legislation in the UK and EU, significantly influence shopping decisions, yet retailers face limitations in adjusting policies to control costs and prevent abuse without risking customer loyalty.
A Signifyd survey of thousands of shoppers across the UK, Spain, Italy, and France indicated that 77 percent consider return policies a strong influence on where they shop, and 94 percent deem ease of return essential. However, fewer than half of consumers expressed willingness to purchase from a retailer that only offers store credit or charges for returns, highlighting the challenge retailers face in balancing consumer demands with operational efficiency and loss prevention.
The Intelligent Returns suite addresses these issues through two new solutions. Instant Refunds offers retailers real-time advisory recommendations, known as Advisory Notices, at critical points such as label creation or carrier scan. This enables retailers to issue immediate refunds to trusted customers at their discretion while identifying and flagging higher-risk cases for further review.
Complementing this, Returns Insights provides a comprehensive overview of the returns ecosystem. It highlights various aspects, including fraudulent returns, policy abuse, product-specific insights, and the correlation between customers with high return rates and subsequent chargebacks.
Nikhita Hyett, General Manager at Signifyd, commented on the market challenges, stating, “Retailers are being asked to deliver better service with tighter resources. We are now seeing some of the biggest brands take drastic steps to control returns abuse, including account closures and stricter policies. Our solutions give retailers a smarter path forward, one that protects the business without punishing good customers.”
Signifyd’s research suggests that shoppers receiving instant refunds are 23 percent more likely to make another purchase within 30 days. By integrating machine learning, real-time risk intelligence, and insights from a global merchant network, the solutions empower retailers to foster customer loyalty while mitigating returns abuse through more accurate decision-making throughout the customer journey.
Both Instant Refunds and Returns Insights are currently available to retailers throughout the UK and Europe for digitally initiated returns of physical goods, subject to applicable laws and contractual eligibility criteria.
Signifyd provides an end-to-end Commerce Protection Platform that utilizes its Commerce Network to enhance conversion rates, automate customer experience, and eliminate fraud and customer abuse for retailers. The company serves numerous businesses listed on the Fortune 1000 and Internet Retailer Top 500. Headquartered in San Jose, CA, Signifyd also maintains offices in Denver, New York, Mexico City, Belfast, and London.
