Zalando taps Google’s UCP offering with new online checkout feature the first use case

Zalando is getting onboard with Google’s Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), a new open source standard for agentic commerce that allows AI agents and merchant systems to work together.

As a first use case, UCP will soon power a new checkout feature, rolling out for eligible retailers in the US now.

Users will be able to discover and checkout Zalando’s products in AI Mode in Google Search and the Gemini app, allowing newbies to discover Zalando while offering existing ones a faster way to shop making the move from discovery to checkout seamless.

In a LinkedIn post, Zalanda said: “The UCP integration is centred on trust and built on two specific pillars: Seller of record: the retailer remains the seller, preserving their direct relationship with the customer and maintaining full control over fulfilment and service standards.”

“Secure checkout: shoppers can buy securely using Google Pay, leveraging payment methods and shipping info already saved in their Google Wallet to complete orders instantly. In the coming months, the protocol will also provide additional capabilities such as integration of loyalty. UCP can simplify the path from inspiration and discovery to purchase, while bringing maximum value to customers and brand partners.”

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

RTIH proudly presents the first edition of its AI in Retail Awards, sponsored by VenHub Global, 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.