Currys, a leading international omnichannel retailer of technology products and services, has teamed up with Accenture and Microsoft to revolutionize its core technology infrastructure and enhance the customer shopping experience using the latest AI technologies. With a workforce of over 32,000 employees and 830 stores across eight countries, Currys is committed to leveraging AI to improve business operations and productivity.
In 2021, Currys consolidated its various brands under one name in the UK, becoming the largest electronics retailer in the country with a 26% market share. Now, the company aims to further enhance its customer experience by deploying a new core cloud technology infrastructure powered by AI. This initiative will not only elevate the shopping experience for customers but also improve the colleague experience for its workforce of 25,000 employees.
To achieve this ambitious goal, Currys has partnered with Accenture, Microsoft, and Avanade to establish a joint venture that will modernize its technology estate and accelerate the adoption of Microsoft AI technologies such as Azure OpenAI Service. By leveraging these technologies, Currys aims to personalize product information for customers, enhance post-sales experiences, and provide faster information about product availability to its colleagues.
Julie Sweet, chair and CEO of Accenture, emphasized the importance of building a strong digital core to drive Currys’ ongoing reinvention and unlock the potential of AI. Together with Microsoft, Accenture is committed to helping Currys raise the bar in the retail industry and create new value and growth opportunities.
Alex Baldock, group CEO of Currys, highlighted the significance of AI in transforming the business and improving both customer and employee experiences. By partnering with Accenture and Microsoft, Currys aims to lead the digital transformation in retail and unlock significant benefits for its colleagues, customers, and shareholders.
This collaboration marks Currys’ continued commitment to leveraging technology to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving retail landscape. With the support of Accenture and Microsoft, Currys is well-positioned to harness the power of AI and drive innovation across its business operations.