Macy’s just launched an AI-powered shopping assistant. Customers who use it spend nearly 400% more 

If you’ve ever stood in front of the mirror and wondered what your outfit’s missing, Macy’s may have the answer. The company recently launched its “Ask Macy’s” AI chatbot, powered by Google’s Gemini AI assistant, and it’s having shocking success. 

The chatbot launched across all the company’s digital platforms on Monday, but it was tested with about half of Macy’s website visitors over several weeks, the company told Bloomberg. Shoppers who use the chatbot spend about 4.75 times more than those who don’t, Bloomberg reported.

The bot’s short-term success comes as Macy’s tries to make its comeback after a decade of declining sales. 

Earlier this month, the company reported net sales decreased by 2.4% last year, but returned to comparable sales growth, up 1.5%. Macy’s expects to make $21.4 billion to $21.65 billion in net sales this year, a little less than last year’s $21.76 billion, and sees comp sales flat at the midpoint of guidance. 

Chief Customer and Digital Officer Max Magni explained that customers may be primed to spend more because they’re looking for a specific item, such as an outfit for an upcoming event, rather than when they’re just browsing, Bloomberg<...