Walmart executives see the promise of AI, but also the costs

Artificial intelligence is allowing Walmart to achieve levels of personalization it has long dreamed of. At the same time, the company is also cracking down on redundant or inefficient uses of AI internally, knowing the technology has a price tag.

AI has allowed the retailer to build experiences based on a better understanding of consumer intent and language, Walmart CEO John Furner told reporters Wednesday at the company’s headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas, as part of its annual Associates Week and shareholders’ meeting.

“There are things we’re doing today that five years ago I don’t think we would have imagined we could do, definitely not at the speed we are, but that’s the value of just constantly thinking about, ‘Where is the customer headed?” Furner said. “It’s early, and there’s a lot that we have to learn; and we have to figure out what works and what doesn’t.”

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