Dataset The Role Of Artificial Intelligence in Driving Digital Transformation in Retail Companies

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a tool; it's arguably the main catalytic engine for Digital Transformation (DT) in retail. It's the core intelligence activating new data-driven business models. This article synthesizes a mix of academic, industry, and technical literature to look at AI's wide-ranging role. The findings point to a clear, quantifiable impact across the retail value chain. This includes everything from hyper-personalizing the customer experience to optimizing the supply chain and demand forecasting 1, and even creating frictionless, intelligent in-store environments.2 By looking at different strategic models—like Walmart's 'Agentic AI' approach 3, H&M's 'Profitability and Sustainability' turnaround 4, and Stitch Fix's 'Human-AI Synergy' 5—we can see multiple paths to value. But this potential is held back by some profound implementation barriers. The research suggests the primary obstacles aren't purely technological. They appear to be socio-technical and ethical.6 We're talking about a major leadership gap 7, immature data governance 8, and serious economic risks, like the possibility of algorithmic collusion 9 or even consumer harm.10 The report concludes that actually getting this value depends on whether retailers can navigate these tricky leadership and ethical challenges, balancing innovation with governance.