The Wholesale Group teams with ShopAI for 'fundamental shift in how members access and use data'
Working with startup ShopAI, The Wholesale Group has created Jake AI, a solution that aims to help its independent wholesale members and supplier partners better compete in an increasingly complex marketplace.
“The wholesale industry has always been built on relationships, data, and quick decision-making, and with Jake AI, we’re taking this a step forward,” says Tom Gittins, Joint Managing Director at The Wholesale Group.
“Jake represents a fundamental shift in how our wholesale members can access and utilise their data. Unlike traditional business intelligence tools that require technical expertise, due to its advanced modern language models, it can be used conversationally to make it easier than ever before.”
Members and suppliers can ask Jake questions such as ‘What’s driving the margin decline in frozen foods this quarter?’ and receive immediate insights that would previously have taken hours of analysis. The solution analyses market trends, identifies promotional opportunities, and correlates sales patterns across the entire network of 255+ members.
Enjoy a bold, full-flavoured brew with Typhoo Tea’s – perfect for keeping the nation’s kettles busy.
— The Wholesale Group (@TWGroup25) July 17, 2025
#TyphooTea #BritishTea #Wholesale pic.twitter.com/YttQhBxTgA
“This technological advancement positions The Wholesale Group far ahead of traditional wholesale models,” says ShopAI’s Ilann Hepworth. “The future of wholesaling isn’t about replacing human expertise with artificial intelligence, it’s about creating intelligent partnerships that amplify human capability.”
“What sets Jake apart from other AI tools is its conversational interface which removes technical barriers, enabling any team member to access sophisticated business intelligence through natural conversation Through Jake AI, The Wholesale Group is writing the playbook for this future ensuring their members and suppliers remain competitive while setting new standards for the entire wholesale industry.”
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
AI will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.
Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”
He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”
“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”
Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering.
For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.
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