Target launching internal chatbot tool for employees

Jun 21

Jun 21 Target launching internal chatbot tool for employees

Target is launching its "Store Companion chatbot" across all nearly 2,000 stores to enhance employee efficiency and customer service. Developed in-house, this AI tool on store handheld devices answers procedural questions and helps with customer interactions. With this move, Target joins other major retailers like Amazon and Walmart in integrating AI to improve operations amidst rising labor costs and challenging sales environments. The tool is designed to support employees in providing a better shopping experience rather than replacing them.

Target is banking on a new generative artificial intelligence tool to help employees do their jobs and improve the shopping experience.
Why it matters: The Minneapolis-based company is the latest retailer to bet on AI for increased efficiency amid rising labor costs and underwhelming sales.
Driving the news: Target said Thursday that it's rolling out its "Store Companion chatbot" as an app for employees at all of its nearly 2,000 stores.
• It will be featured on workers' store-owned handheld devices to answer questions about processes and procedures.
• The retailer developed the tool in-house and is currently piloting it in about 400 stores before the nationwide rollout.
The big picture: Amazon, Walmart and Best Buy are among the retailers that recently launched AI tools like chatbots for employees or consumers.