Ikea has set ambitious targets to provide artificial intelligence (AI) literacy training to approximately 3,000 co-workers and 500 leaders.
The Ikea training programmes aim to ensure that co-workers are not just prepared but “empowered” to lead into the new age of AI.
It encompasses a variety of courses tailored to meet the needs of co-workers at various levels within the organisation. These range from AI Fundamentals, available to all co-workers, to specialised training like Responsible AI and Mastering Gen AI and Algorithmic Training for Ethics.
For leaders, programmes such as AI Exploration Days are designed to align AI potential with Ikea business priorities.
Parag Parekh, chief digital officer for Ikea Retail (Ingka Group), said: “This effort is a testament to the Ikea belief in the power of its people to harness technology for greater creativity, efficiency, and results.
“Our vision is clear. It’s about enhancing the capabilities of co-workers through technology, ensuring that Ikea continues to be the place where innovation and compassion go hand in hand.”
Furthermore, Ikea has invested in programmes such as the Accelerator Programme, for tech enthusiasts with a Masters of PhD in the fields of Data Science, Machine Learning or Large Language Models, which aim to fill critical roles by attracting and nurturing the right talent.
“We are providing a blended experience for learning, and doing in a way that future-proofs our workforce to ensure we remain at the forefront of innovation” added Francesco Marzoni, global data & analytics officer for Ikea Retail.
Read an exclusive company profile on Ikea in the newly published RetailX UK Top500 report. It tracks how the Elite retailer is putting affordability and sustainable living at the centre of both Ikea’s strategy and its UK website. The business has also invested in its UK fulfilment services over the past year.
The 10th edition of the RetailX UK Top500 ranks the leading retailers, brands and marketplaces that sell in the UK today.
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