Walmart is transforming retail operations with AI tools for store associates, including real-time translation, GenAI-powered assistants and AR inventory systems, to boost efficiency, improve customer service and support career growth.
Walmart has unveiled a new suite of AI tools for its store associates, part of a wider push to integrate AI in retail operations at scale. The initiative aims to improve workflows, enhance service and create more rewarding roles for its 1.5 million-strong workforce.
Available through the Walmart associate app, the tools are designed to remove friction, simplify tasks and increase efficiency on the shop floor.
“AI is a key enabler in improving how we work, and we believe its full potential is unlocked only when paired with the strengths of our people,” said Greg Cathey, Senior Vice President, Transformation and Innovation. “When you put intuitive, accessible technology into the hands of millions of associates, the impact isn’t incremental – it’s transformational.”
AI-driven task management reduces shift planning time
One of the most impactful innovations in Walmart’s AI in retail strategy is an AI-directed workflow tool that understands, prioritises and recommends tasks. Initially launched for overnight stocking, it has cut shift planning from 90 minutes to just 30. Pilots are now running for other shifts, further improving productivity and allowing managers to focus on customer service.
Real-time translation breaks down language barriers
Walmart has also introduced an AI-powered translation feature supporting 44 languages in both text-to-text and speech-to-speech formats. Enhanced with Walmart-specific knowledge, it can accurately interpret product names such as “Great Value” for more precise communication between associates and customers. The company plans to expand the tool to more languages and roll it out internationally.
GenAI upgrade strengthens conversational AI
For the past five years, Walmart’s conversational AI has answered millions of daily queries like, “What aisle is hand soap in?” or “What’s my schedule tomorrow?” A forthcoming GenAI upgrade will transform complex process guides into easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions, enabling associates to handle scenarios such as returns without receipts more confidently.
AR and RFID improve apparel operations
In apparel – one of retail’s most complex categories – Walmart is combining RFID technology with its AR tool, VizPick, to speed up stocking and reduce backroom search time. Associates can scan racks and be visually guided to the exact items that need to be moved to the sales floor, replacing a time-consuming manual process.
Powered by Element
All Walmart AI tools, including MyAssistant for corporate teams and an AI assistant for merchants, run on Element – the company’s proprietary machine learning platform designed for rapid, large-scale deployment with strict data governance.
By combining advanced AI technologies with human expertise, Walmart is setting a new benchmark for AI in retail, enabling associates to work smarter, serve customers better and grow their careers in a tech-enabled environment.
