Artificial Intelligence

Amazon eyes messaging startup
Amazon may be looking to bolster its enterprise services offering with an innovative addition. Corporate chatroom startup Slack Technologies has received inquiries of late about a potential takeover from technology companies, including Amazon. The company is valued at approximately $9 billion, according to Bloomberg.
TreeHouse, Dallas
Eco-friendly home improvement retailer TreeHouse's new outpost in Dallas is billed as the nation's first energy-positive (meaning it will generate more energy than it uses) big-box store. The 35,000-sq.-ft. space offers a curated selection of products, materials and technologies — some not available elsewhere—designed to promote healthy and sustainable spaces. It also offers turn-key services and programs, including kitchen and bath design. solar energy kits, home insulation and "smart" home installation.

Amazon granted anti-showrooming patent

Despite the many sales that showrooming has afforded Amazon over the years, the retailer surely doesn't want to become a victim going forward.
Amazon brings two-hour deliveries to Denver

Shoppers in Denver are getting their first taste of Amazon Prime Now. The service, which is exclusive to the online giant’s Prime members, provides free two-hour delivery on tens of thousands of items, from household and daily essentials to electronics, games and outdoor supplies. Area Prime members can order through Amazon’s Prime Now app, available on iOS and Android devices, Amazon’s web site, or “speak” orders to their Alexa device.
Retailers getting serious about artificial intelligence

A new survey suggests that retailers are ready to invest in artificial intelligence and other new technologies.
Amazon re-launches Dash Wand — with new feature

Amazon is giving its Dash Wand a makeover — make that a “voice over.” The online giant has upgraded its Amazon Dash Wand with its artificial intelligence-based Alexa functionality. Extending Amazon’s signature virtual assistant Alexa beyond the Echo home speaker offering, the Dash Wand is described as the smallest and most inexpensive Alexa-enabled device, according to Geek Wire. The Amazon Dash
Amazon training program hits milestone

Amazon’s innovative re-training program has hit an all-time high.
Is Amazon Go readying for prime time?

A recent job listing by Amazon has raised speculation that the online giant plans to roll out its checkout-free convenience store concept, Amazon Go. The online giant recently posted a job listing seeking a senior real estate manager for Amazon Go. The role will be based in Seattle and will include travel.
Robots, humans to staff online giant's new fulfillment center

Amazon’s newest distribution center will use robotics to streamline operations. The online giant plans to open its second Colorado fulfillment center in Thornton. This will be the first Amazon Robotics facility in the Centennial State.
Robots & Retail: Going beyond the supply chain

Retail has historically been one of the most technically advanced industries, particularly in warehouses and the last mile. The industry is no stranger to automation as fast and efficient supply chains are the foundation of a strong retail operation in a competitive environment. Over the past few decades, increasing automation at the supply chain level has directly impacted both revenue and the bottom line.
Online giant bolsters fulfillment fleet as it enters new territory

Amazon continues to expand its footprint of distribution centers. Amazon is set to break ground on its first fulfillment center in the state of Oregon. The 855,000-sq.-ft. facility, which will be located in Troutdale, will augment the company’s sortation center in Hillsboro, and Prime Now hub in Portland.
Regional supermarket chain steps up promotional game

Weis Markets knows the key to driving loyalty is to deliver value. In a move that will improve its marketing and promotions operations, the regional grocer has partnered with dunnhumby and Aptaris. By integrating an enterprise promotional planning, price optimization, modeling and forecasting system, Weis is one step closer to increasing sales, improving customer loyalty and building a more profitable and competitive market position.