Disney, Asda, and Walmart Deploy AI to Reshape Retail Experiences

The Disney Store is currently testing an AI-powered personal shopping assistant within its iOS app, marking a significant step in CEO Josh D'Amaro’s broader strategy to weave AI across the company's business operations. The tool processes natural language to mirror Disney’s brand voice, allowing users to filter products by character, age, or budget while providing real-time order tracking and one-click purchasing. Future updates are expected to expand support to Android and web browsers.

Simultaneously, UK grocer Asda has become the first retailer outside the US to integrate the Amazon Retail Ad Service. Starting in the final quarter of this year, the partnership will leverage Amazon’s advertising technology to provide more relevant product suggestions based on consumer shopping intent. Rachel Eyre, Asda’s Chief Customer and Digital Officer, noted that the move is intended to streamline the online experience while offering brand partners more measurable campaign insights.

Walmart is also pushing the boundaries of interactive commerce by incorporating its AI assistant, Sparky, into its "Walmart Live" platform. During a recent campaign featuring fitness expert Ally Love, the retailer combined custom choreography with AI-driven product recommendations. Justin Breton, Head of Partnerships at Walmart, emphasized that the shift in marketing is moving away from passive attention toward creating experiences where consumers can actively participate.