By
Godfrey Benjamin
June 27th, 2024
Retail giant Target is looking to use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve its operations and boost its overall efficiency.
Retail giant Target is looking to use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve its operations and boost its overall efficiency. In line with this, it is set to equip its workforce, made up of over 400,000 individuals across nearly 2,000 stores spread all over the United States, with a powerful new tool. With this tool, which is an AI-powered chatbot dubbed “Store Companion”, Target is aiming to streamline its operations, empower employees, and ultimately give its nationwide customers a better experience and satisfaction.
Simplifying Tasks and Boosting Efficiency Is the Target
In a recent company statement, Target has revealed the timeline for the rollout of Store Companion. The firm claims that the new generative AI chatbot will launch in August and will be available as an app on staff handheld devices.
With the tool, Target employees can receive immediate answers to on-the-job process questions. Whether it’s signing up a customer for a Target Circle Card or troubleshooting a cash register issue, Store Companion will be on hand to provide clear guidance.
According to Target’s executive vice president and chief stores officer, Mark Schindele, Store Companion is a game-changer for the company. His statement reads partly:
“The tool frees up time and attention for our team to serve guests with care and to create a shopping destination that invites discovery, ease, and moments of everyday joy.”
It might be worth mentioning that the new AI chatbot is a big move for Target in terms of its core objective of delivering exceptional customer service. By reducing the time employees spend on making routine inquiries, the company may have empowered them to focus on delivery now.
Firm to Explore More Uses for AI Technology
Notably, Target’s in-house technology team developed Store Companion. However, it appears that their work is not yet done. The AI assistant is currently in the pilot phase in 400 stores nationwide, actively collecting valuable feedback to optimize its functionality before a full rollout.
Beyond store operations, however, Target also has its focus on using generative AI for customers. It hopes to achieve this by creating more relevant product descriptions on its website, using AI to summarize customer reviews. The target for Target is to provide shoppers with clearer and more accurate information, ultimately leading to more confident purchase decisions.
Meanwhile, the firm does not rule out other future rollouts as it has said it is currently exploring dozens of additional AI applications that will change the face of its business.