Two major European retailers have launched new AI initiatives, indicating the growing maturity of the technology.
In Germany, fashion brand Esprit is deploying Salesforce’s Commerce Cloud, Marketing Cloud and machine learning automation solution Einstein to automate its personalisation initiatives.
Customers will be able to access new, more tailored shopping experiences such as predictive product recommendations.
Leif Erichson, chief digital and operations officer at Esprit, said: “Today, digital generates more than 27 percent of our revenue and our partnership with Salesforce will allow us to grow this important channel with new customer experiences.
“Salesforce’s market-leading technology and approach of focusing on the customer fits our strategy perfectly and will better position Esprit to meet the needs of our customers in the digital era.”
Meanwhile, Dutch grocery giant Ahold Delhaize is taking part in an artificial intelligence initiative alongside participants from the travel and finance sectors.
The other participants in the Kickstart AI programme include financial institution ING, airline KLM, train provider NS and electronics firm Philips.
The initiative aims to improve education to develop an AI community in the country. It will include competitions that will mobilise local experts to solve challenges in areas such as health and mobility.
The companies will also fund education at academic institutions and promote a national course for AI.
