“Our partnership brings together Kroger’s world-class expertise in the grocery industry with the power of Azure and Azure AI,” said Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. “Together, we will redefine the shopping experience for millions of customers at both Kroger and other retailers around the world, setting a new standard for innovation in the industry.”
Fast and Efficient
Now, Kroger is collaborating with the software giant. The company will open a pair of stores, one in Washington and the other in Ohio. Customers will be greeted by image recognition cameras and digital shelf labels to create an efficient retail experience. Microsoft and Kroger will also use targeted ads through digital signage in the locations. The obvious question is what is the benefit for the consumer? Well, customers will be guided around the store by an app. Searched items will show a symbol on the shelf, allowing the customer to more easily find what they’re looking for. Kroger and Microsoft say the service will be quicker and easier. “Kroger is building a seamless ecosystem driven by data and technology to provide our customers with personalized food inspiration. We are identifying partners through Restock Kroger who will help us reinvent the customer experience and create new profit streams that will also accelerate our core business growth. We are excited to collaborate with Microsoft to redefine grocery retail,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s chairman and CEO.
