Sainsbury’s to work with Microsoft on AI tools to help customers and staff
The supermarket has signed a five-year deal with the US technology giant.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sainsbury’s has signed a deal with Microsoft to use the technology giant’s artificial intelligence tools to help customers and staff.
The supermarket said it will use the technology to create more engaging stores and online shopping experiences for customers, while AI-powered data tools will help staff save time and focus on key tasks.
It will use generative AI to create a more interactive online shopping experience, and improve product searches.
For staff, Sainsbury’s said they will have access to real-time data for certain key processes, such as shelf replenishment, using AI and cameras on shelf edges to guide workers to the specific items that need restocking – saving time and freeing them up to focus on other priorities.
The supermarket added it will also use AI-powered tools to address customer and staff queries.
Clodagh Moriarty, Sainsbury’s chief retail and technology officer, said: “Our collaboration with Microsoft will accelerate our ambition to become the UK’s leading AI-enabled grocer.
“It’s one of the key ways we’re investing in transforming our capabilities over the next three years, enabling us to take another big leap forward in efficiency and productivity, continue to provide leading customer service, and deliver returns for our shareholders.”
Microsoft is one of the biggest companies in the AI space, having created its own AI-powered assistant within its Windows software, Copilot, and is the largest investor in OpenAI, the firm behind ChatGPT.
Microsoft is expected to announce a wide range of AI-powered updates when it holds its annual developer conference next week.
Clare Barclay, Microsoft UK’s chief executive, said: “Today, Sainsbury’s has laid out a bold vision that puts AI at the heart of its business, accelerating the development of new services which will enhance and transform the customer and colleague experience.
“We are delighted to be working with Sainsbury’s to power the next generation of retail.”