New report from Everseen sees retailers and consumers weighing in on the future of retail AI

Everseen, a specialist in vision AI, has released a report revealing retailers’ plans for rapid AI deployments alongside the critical need for transparency and consumer trust.

Based on a survey of 200 loss prevention retail executives and more than 1,000 US consumers, this shows that:

63% of retailers say AI is critical to maintaining a competitive edge, and they expect an average 51% return on investment from AI deployments within the first three years.

55% of consumers are comfortable with AI and advanced retail technology, and 65% say AI makes shopping more convenient.

85% of consumers believe theft contributes to higher prices, and 60% of retailers have already turned to AI to address the issue.

72% of consumers want greater transparency about use in grocery and retail stores. Retailers are already using multiple disclosure methods, including signage at entrances (44%), which 64% of consumers find helpful. Half of consumers also cite self-checkout pop-ups as effective. 

“AI is already transforming retail, driving efficiency, reducing shrink, and enhancing customer experiences,” says Alan O’Herlihy, CEO at Everseen. “It's encouraging to see the shared perspective of consumers and retailers on how AI can improve the shopping experience. The insights from this report can help the industry align on key success factors for AI, including measurable impacts on shrink reduction and the importance of transparency."

AI is already playing a major role in loss prevention, with 60% of retailers having implemented AI and another 30% planning to do so within the next year. Consumers are equally attuned to the issue - 74% believe theft leads to store closures, and 59% believe AI technology, such as product recognition at checkout, can help reduce it.

Retailers rank better customer service and support (31%) and improved store layout and navigation (31%) as top benefits. Consumers see AI improving their experience through faster checkouts (44%), better inventory management (43%), and more personalized shopping (24%).

Despite the optimism, AI implementation does come with challenges. Retailers cite time and resources for training (47%), customer acceptance and trust (46%), and integration with existing systems (44%) as key hurdles.

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

RTIH, organiser of the industry leading RTIH Innovation Awards, proudly brings you the first edition of the RTIH AI in Retail Awards, which is now open for entries. 

As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.

With 2025 set to be the year when AI and especially gen AI shake off the ‘heavily hyped’ tag and become embedded in retail business processes, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.

Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.

Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 3rd July. This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.

Please email our Editor, Scott Thompson, if you have any questions or need further information: scott.thompson@retailtechinnovationhub.com

Key 2025 dates

Friday, 23rd May: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 27th May: 2025 finalists revealed

Wednesday, 28th May - Friday, 13th June: Judging days

Thursday, 3rd July: Winners announced at the 2025 RTIH AI in Retail Awards Ceremony, to be held at The Barbican in Central London.