Retailers Struggle to Turn AI Ambition into Concrete Value

A study by HyperFinity of 200 decision-makers reveals that while 53% of retailers classify AI as a top business initiative, only 46% possess a defined strategy supported by actionable value cases. This disconnect leaves 42% of firms uncertain about the actual commercial return on their investments. Furthermore, internal readiness is lagging; just 27% of teams are considered fully prepared for agentic AI deployment, with a quarter of the workforce remaining only partially equipped for the shift.

Thomas Hill, Co-Founder of HyperFinity, notes that the retail conversation has moved beyond proving the necessity of AI toward the difficult task of building governance and operating models. While 83% of leaders expect the technology to automate or lead decision-making within the next year, adoption appetite varies by function. eCommerce directors remain notably more cautious than Chief Data Officers regarding the automation of high-level decisions. Ultimately, the industry is shifting its focus from mere manual labor reduction to using AI as a tool for smarter pricing, loyalty, and customer engagement, where human judgment remains essential for long-term success.