As the holiday season approaches, more shoppers are turning to artificial intelligence to improve their shopping experience. A recent survey highlights how AI is becoming a key tool for consumers looking for deals, gift ideas, and easier checkout options. This shift is already influencing how retailers prepare for the busiest shopping time of the year.

The Growing Role of AI in Consumer Shopping

According to the survey, about 69% of consumers are open to using AI to support their holiday shopping. Many are even willing to let AI handle parts of their shopping, with 94% saying they’d try a shopping agent if given the chance. This shows a clear appetite for smarter, faster ways to find what they need during the holidays.

People mainly want AI help in finding deals and gift recommendations. Around 60% look for AI to help spot discounts, while over half want AI to suggest perfect gifts. Visual search tools are also gaining popularity, with 53% of consumers interested in using images to find gifts. Payment options are evolving too, with digital wallets emerging as a preferred method. More than half of respondents would abandon a purchase if their favorite payment method wasn’t accepted.

The Challenges and Opportunities for Retailers

Despite rising interest, many retailers are still catching up with AI technology. Only about half of software professionals report their companies are developing shopping or purchasing bots. Even fewer handle this work in-house; most partnerships involve companies like OpenAI or Microsoft’s AI programs. Retailers need to adapt quickly to meet customer expectations for seamless AI integration.

Offering diverse payment options is crucial, including digital wallets and buy-now-pay-later services. Retailers also need to embed AI shopping assistants into their online stores to help customers find products and deals. This not only improves the shopping experience but can also boost sales during the busy holiday period.

The Impact of AI on Retail Costs and Customer Service

As AI becomes more common, retailers face the challenge of managing higher return rates. In 2024, returns are expected to cost nearly $890 billion, and this number is likely to grow. To reduce these costs, retailers should make returns easier by offering free exchanges and clear return policies.

Flexible payment options are also vital. Accepting digital wallets and installment plans can help retain customers and prevent lost sales. Retailers should aim for a smooth, connected experience across online, in-store, and social media channels. Training staff to handle returns efficiently and integrating AI tools into all touchpoints can make this possible.

Looking ahead, AI is set to play an even bigger role in holiday shopping. Consumers want smarter, faster, and more personalized experiences, and retailers need to respond. By embracing AI technology now, they can stay competitive and meet the rising expectations of holiday shoppers.

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• https://ai-techpark.com/applause-survey-most-shoppers-will-use-ai-for-holiday-shopping/