Walmart’s AI Links Shopper Intent to What’s on the Shelf — PYMNTS

Walmart’s AI assistant Sparky is rapidly gaining traction, doubling weekly users and driving higher basket sizes, as the retailer deepens its “AI-native” strategy. The next phase focuses on capturing in-store behavioral data to better connect shopper intent with real-time inventory and improve omnichannel execution.

Key Takeaways

  • AI adoption accelerating: Sparky’s rapid growth and impact on basket size highlight its role in shaping digital shopping behavior and engagement.

  • Bridging online and in-store data: Walmart is investing in capturing physical store interactions to align shopper intent with inventory and improve fulfillment accuracy.

  • Data-driven retail evolution: Enhanced data collection and AI integration position Walmart to compete in a landscape where purchase decisions increasingly begin before entering a store or app.