Human centric Ikea nabs spot in European Commission’s Repository of AI Literacy Practices

Ingka Group, the largest Ikea retailer, has been featured in the European Commission’s Repository of AI Literacy Practices, which highlights leading initiatives across Europe that help people build the skills and confidence needed to work with AI responsibly.  

Ikea is contributing to several EU level processes related to the implementation of the recently adopted AI Act. This includes

• Input to the public consultation on high risk AI systems, sharing operational insights and lessons to help shape rules that are practical, safe, and supportive of innovation.

• Participation in the AI Pact, with actions reflected in the European Commission’s upcoming implementation report, which will be officially presented by the EU AI Office in Brussels in December.

•  Took part in consultations to simplify and harmonise digital regulations (the Digital Omnibus Package), including AI related rules. Feedback focused on operational clarity, risk-based simplifications, and supporting responsible, scalable AI deployment. 

The company has introduced a number of Gen AI powered tools. Copilot is available to all co-workers, while MyAI Portal (the company’s main AI Assistant) is being rolled out across the entire organisation. MyAI Portal offers a primary default GenAI model alongside several added options, enabling co-workers to select the model that best aligns with their specific tasks and requirements.  

Ikea also offers several training courses. It has introduced, for example, a 30-minute “Say Hej to AI” foundational course covering topics such as AI in society, key terminology, ethical considerations, critical evaluation of outputs, and prohibited uses.  

The training has been prioritised in retail learning plans for FY26 and incorporated into onboarding programmes, with access to advanced tools contingent upon completion. 

Parag Parekh, Global CDO at Ikea Retail (Ingka Group), says: “We are proud to contribute to AI literacy efforts while embedding learning within many crucial areas of the business.”

“Our approach is human centric: simple language, relatable examples, and peer learning communities that make AI accessible to everyone. By providing practical tools, structured training, and active participation from senior leaders, we empower our co-workers to use AI responsibly and build confidence in the technology.”

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.