A recent industry report predicts that by 2035, a majority of core retail tasks could be automated or augmented by artificial intelligence. Many retailers are already preparing, with plans to allocate roughly one‑third of their digital budgets toward AI-related technologies next year, and nearly 70% expecting to increase this investment over the following two years.
The most immediate impacts are likely to be in routine, data-driven operations such as inventory management, stock-replenishment forecasting, pricing, demand forecasting, and online merchandising. AI is expected to relieve workers of repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on strategic, creative, or customer-facing roles.
However, the transition may be disruptive. Some retailers have warned that AI adoption could lead to job reductions, particularly in warehouses, order-fulfillment, and traditional customer service roles. Others expect workforce roles to evolve, with new specialist positions emerging to manage and oversee AI-powered systems in retail.
Overall, the shift toward AI suggests that retail will become more efficient, data-driven, and personalized. Consumers may benefit from better product matching, smoother shopping experiences, and faster service, while retailers have the opportunity to optimize costs, reduce waste, and scale operations — provided they invest in modern infrastructure and manage the transition carefully.
