A poll of 2,000 adults found 28% would be happy for a personal AI assistant to make purchases on their behalf, based solely on their shopping history and needs.
Over half of Brits are open to the idea of AI shopping assistants, according to a recent study. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 28% would be comfortable with a personal AI assistant making purchases for them based solely on their shopping history and needs, with most willing to allow up to £99 to be spent without their approval.
The research also indicated that shoppers are looking forward to future stores featuring smart trolleys and baskets that automatically track item prices. They also anticipate shops having smart shelves that dynamically adjust prices and display personalised offers, as well as offering biometric payment options.
Kingfisher, the parent company of B&Q and Screwfix in the UK, commissioned the research and collaborated with Andrew Grill, known as the Actionable Futurist, to forecast how the DIY retail sector might evolve.
Andrew believes the research demonstrates just how at ease shoppers are becoming with AI, and highlights the importance of speed and convenience.
Andrew said: “AI shopping agents are no longer science fiction – they’re the next retail revolution. We’re entering an age of anticipatory retail – where customers expect brands to know what they need before they do.”
The study also found that 24% of respondents want a bulb and fixture scanner, or app, to identify things like the correct size screw, fitting, or lightbulb to use – eliminating the need to manually measure replacement parts.
Meanwhile, 23% of customers would appreciate a smooth transition from online to in-store shopping, such as being guided to the location of items in their online basket within the store.
Other sought-after features included customisation stations (14%), and 12% expressed interest in an augmented reality store where they could use their phone or smart glasses to view product reviews, sustainability scores, and personalised offers.
According to data from OnePoll.com, one in ten (10%) were thrilled at the prospect of having out-of-stock tools or parts 3D printed right before their eyes.
The most popular items to be printed in-store were identified as home décor items like picture frames, replacement parts for tools or appliances, and custom brackets or fittings.
However, despite these futuristic wishes, 45% still prefer human expertise over AI when it comes to advice on home improvement purchases – with only 4% opting for the latter.
Thierry Garnier, CEO Of Kingfisher, which also created a visual representation of the store of the future in partnership with Andrew Grill, said: “As the way we shop continues to evolve, customers are embracing technology to deliver greater personalisation, speed, choice, and richer experiences.
“We see our digital ecosystem as fundamental to serving our customers’ rapidly changing needs, seamlessly connecting every part of our offer.”