Google tie up sees forward thinking Gap Inc. build future retail technology roadmap around AI

Gap Inc. has skipped dipping a toe into AI, and is building its future tech roadmap around it via a new partnership with Google.

This is a fantastic technology play designed to accelerate design, planning, and pricing using Gemini, Vertex AI, and BigQuery. It’s also a great investment and a playbook to pay attention to, with more companies set to follow suit.

So says Nigel Storey, SVP of Technology at lululemon.

In a LinkedIn post, he said: "CTO Sven Gerjets notes it's about empowering teams and preserving the "human centric DNA" of the brand. By redesigning workflows, AI becomes an operational co-pilot, freeing teams to focus on creativity, culture, and customer connection."

"The goal is a hyper-personalised shopping experience, stronger storytelling delivered with unprecedented speed. This is how some legacy retail leaders use intelligent systems to gain an edge."

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

RTIH proudly presents the first edition of its AI in Retail Awards, sponsored by 3D Cloud and EdTech Innovation Hub.

This is now open for entries. Deadline for submissions is Friday, 5th December. It’s free to enter and you can do so across multiple categories.

Check out categories and entry forms here.

As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.

With 2025 set to be the year when AI and especially gen AI shake off the ‘heavily hyped’ tag and become embedded in retail business processes, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.

Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.

Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 29th January. This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.