AI in action: How leading retailers are accelerating growth

AI is changing the game in retail – helping brands make faster decisions, improve customer experiences and stay ahead of the competition. 

The Growth Report, produced in partnership with Commerce, dives into how top UK retailers are using AI and intelligent automation to drive growth and streamline operations.

It also explores the latest trends and strategies across digital innovation, customer experience and diversification that leading retailers are adopting to remain agile in a rapidly changing market.  

In this article, we break down the key insights, share case studies from top brands and highlight what these findings mean for retail leaders looking to stay ahead. 

What are the key ways retailers are leveraging AI for growth?  

Retailers are embracing AI tools and intelligent automation in several ways: 

• Personalisation in action – Marks & Spencer, Holland & Barrett and Boots are leveraging AI to deliver tailored recommendations and drive conversion.
• Smarter operations – Ocado, Walmart and Co-op are using AI to enhance inventory forecasting and streamline commercial planning.
• Elevating CX – retailers across all verticals are rolling out practical AI applications that improve customer support and create more seamless, satisfying shopping journeys.

Find out more about each of these use cases with your copy of The Growth Report. 

What other key trends and themes are shaping UK retail growth in 2025? 

The report identifies key themes, including:  

• Automation to streamline operations and personalise customer experiences.
• Data management and cyber resilience as competitive differentiators.
• Diversification beyond traditional retail, including marketplaces, retail media and subscription models.

These trends highlight how retailers must adapt to both technological advances and evolving customer expectations to remain competitive. 

Who did Retail Week and Commerce speak to for the report? 

To create a comprehensive view, the report draws on insights from senior leaders across finance, operations, digital and customer experience. Contributors include executives from major UK retailers, providing a real-world perspective on the strategies shaping the sector today. 

The report includes practical case studies from retailers, including M&S, Currys, Holland & Barrett and Deliveroo. These examples demonstrate how organisations are applying technology, leveraging data and exploring new business models to accelerate growth and enhance operational efficiency. 

Industry expert thought leaders also provide commentary on emerging opportunities.   

What are the biggest takeaways for retail leaders from the report? 

Retail leaders should focus on resilient operations, digital enablement and revenue diversification. Adopting a technology-first mindset and promoting agile organisational practices can help businesses stay competitive, retain talent and drive long-term growth in a rapidly evolving retail landscape. 

Where can I read more?  

For a deeper dive into data, strategies, and case studies shaping UK retail, access The Growth Report today.