AI in retail. Consumer expectations vs. industry experiments – key information
- Wizards of the Coast has faced controversy after revealing the use of AI in creating game graphics, stressing the importance of honesty in communicating with consumers.
- An IBM survey showed that the majority of consumers are dissatisfied with their current shopping experience, but open to new opportunities brought by artificial intelligence in commerce.
- Despite tensions around AI, there is strong interest from consumers in using AI technology, indicating the growing importance of AI integration in the retail industry.

Magic experiments with AI in role-playing games
Wizards of the Coast, a well-known publisher of games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering, is facing criticism for its approach to artificial intelligence. After initially denying the use of AI in the creation of game graphics, the company has admitted to using the technology. The use of AI in creation has become a topic of heated discussion on social media, where honesty and transparency in communication with consumers have become crucial.
Retail in the age of AI
IBM surveyed 20,000 consumers from around the world in the results of their third annual report. The results are surprising: only 9% of consumers are satisfied with their in-store shopping experience, while only 14% are satisfied with online shopping. However, many consumers indicated that they are excited about the possibilities that artificial intelligence brings, especially in the context of virtual assistants and other AI-enabled solutions.
Summary
Despite the tensions and controversy surrounding AI in graphic design and other aspects of commerce, most consumers are open to the new technology. As many as 80% of those who have not yet had experience with AI solutions in retail expressed a willingness to try them out. The ultimate challenges and opportunities of integrating AI in retail remain a key topic for the industry in the coming years.