Retail is at a pivotal moment. Disruption is unavoidable and AI has shifted from a novelty to an expectation. While AI continues to drive personalization, efficiency, and growth, its impact ultimately depends on data integrity, governance, and the expertise to apply it effectively. At the same time, scrutiny from consumers and stakeholders is intensifying, with growing calls for transparency and trust. 

This report highlights AI trends expected to have the greatest impact over the next year and how consumer demands, accelerating technology, and global uncertainty are converging to reshape how retailers operate and compete. 

In this Industry Pulse report, we’ll discuss:

• 5 trends that will impact the industry in 2026
• How forward-thinking retailers can thrive in uncertainty and shape the future of retail
• Why transparency, data integrity, and trust will define the winners in AI-powered commerceThe state of AI maturity in retail and how leaders can unlock the benefits of AI-driven change

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