John Lewis Embraces AI Shopping Amid "Difficult Economy

John Lewis is increasing its investment in content creation to engage customers as AI agent shopping grows. The retailer notes that searches from AI agents have jumped to 2.5% from 0.3% in just one year, calling this trend "exponential." To adapt, John Lewis has unveiled a new studio in its Oxford Street store. This space allows influencers to record content daily, aiming to generate online buzz that AI can utilize. The company is also producing its own video content, including a mini-series featuring celebrities. This move comes as British shoppers are "very careful" with discretionary spending due to concerns about inflation and higher interest rates. The managing director of John Lewis department stores, Peter Ruis, highlighted the difficult economic climate. This shift shows how retailers are adapting to new ways customers discover products online.