US value retailer Citi Trends taps Invent.ai tech to transform inventory management processes

Invent.ai has been selected by Citi Trends, a value retailer of apparel, accessories and home trends primarily for African American and multicultural families in the US, to provide AI powered inventory solutions for allocation and replenishment.

Invent.ai’s AI and machine learning capabilities will help Citi Trends optimise inventory and enhance efficiency across nearly 600 stores and two distribution centres.

“We are excited to partner with invent.ai to transform our inventory management processes,” says Ken Seipel, Chief Executive Officer at Citi Trends. “By embracing AI and data driven decision-making, we are confident that we can significantly enhance our operational agility, improve our bottom line, and deliver exceptional experiences for our valued customers.”

“Today, retailers need more than traditional methods to stay competitive - they require agility and precision driven by advanced technology,” says Gurhan Kok, Founder and CEO at invent.ai. “Our partnership brings AI decisioning to Citi Trends’ inventory processes, empowering the retailer to respond dynamically to customer demand and market shifts while optimising profits. Together, we’re redefining what’s possible in modern retail operations.”

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

RTIH, organiser of the industry leading RTIH Innovation Awards, proudly brings you the first edition of the RTIH AI in Retail Awards, which is now open for entries. 

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, 3rd July.

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.

Please email our Editor, Scott Thompson, if you have any questions or need further information: scott.thompson@retailtechinnovationhub.com

Key 2025 dates

Friday, 23rd May: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 27th May: 2025 finalists revealed

Wednesday, 28th May - Friday, 13th June: Judging days

Thursday, 3rd July: Winners announced at the 2025 RTIH AI in Retail Awards Ceremony, to be held at The Barbican in Central London.