How is AI being used and what will this mean for you ?
Iceland Foods have in recent years been researching and experimenting with AI and how this can benefit not only the company but the customers and keep them in the running for one of the top budget retailers.
Image Credits – Iceland Foods Limited
AI Delivery Scheduler :
As of recent months a new system has been implemented to replace what used to be a time consuming job. That job being route planning for all deliveries including both home deliveries and stock deliveries to stores. You might be asking why is this so important and has it made a difference. Since the implementation there has been a drastic improvement in almost all aspects of deliveries, now while specific stats aren’t yet available due to the short time frame I was able to see first hand during a store visit just how much faster this has allowed staff to complete jobs such as working additional stock to provide a fuller store and ensure the best shopping experience.
the system is able to calculate the best route for home delivery drivers while taking into account traffic conditions and how much time is required to complete drops. In addition to this it also means that for customers there are now more options for deliveries and more orders can be fit into the same window of time and for example if a redelivery is required for one reason or another it is now likely that there will be the time available so now issues can be solved for the customers the same day. Now this all sounds great but what is it actually like.
Ricky (Store Manager) : “ I’m all for investing in AI and it does help but it can lead to lost drive time and tight turn-arounds when operating in unfamiliar locations but it’s definitely good for future proofing.”
AI CCTV :
Iceland’s SAI system is one currently being trialed in a few stores across Cornwall in which they aim to reduce theft and give more security to staff due to the increase violence against retail workers. This system works based of an algorithm which is constantly being fed by ongoing CCTV footage to learn patterns and eventually recognise repeat offenders which has and will continue to allow staff to focus on their jobs and the customer needs rather than having to also act as security. Now as to why this is relevant to customers, this system is actually a big part in helping keep costs down even tho it may not seem like it.
Ricky (Store Manager) : “inflation is not only related to the economy but also to stock loss and i’ll always be honest to customers and tell them that it doesn’t matter why they’re stealing. If we let people steal because it’s only a few quid on a mass scale that adds up and to recoup losses we have to up prices so this system is in place to protect the stock and prevent unnecessary price rises so we are able to remain competitive with pricing which makes their shopping cheaper.”
Photo Credits : WCCTV.co.uk