What: Lowe's expands AI implementation with Mylow Companion, an OpenAI-powered tool deployed across 1,700+ stores to enhance employee product knowledge and customer service capabilities through natural language interaction.

Why it is important: This rollout illustrates the evolution of retail AI from customer-facing applications to comprehensive solutions that empower employees while improving service quality

Lowe's has expanded its AI implementation by launching Mylow Companion, an associate-focused tool built on the same foundation as its March 2025 customer-facing Mylow app, across all 1,700+ stores in its network. The OpenAI-powered system responds to natural language queries through voice-to-text functionality, allowing hands-free operation while providing detailed product information and problem-solving guidance. According to Chief Digital and Information Officer Seemantini Godbole, the tool ensures consistent expert-level advice delivery regardless of an employee's tenure, whether they've been with the company for five weeks or five years. The technology's development in collaboration with OpenAI includes continuous evolution based on direct in-app feedback. This initiative builds upon Lowe's broader digital strategy, which includes the November 2024 introduction of a Digital Home Platform offering loyalty program members personalised information about their home products and appliances.

IADS Notes: Lowe's deployment of Mylow Companion across its 1,700+ stores represents a significant advancement in retail AI implementation. According to Inside Retail's March 2025 analysis , 71% of consumers now expect personalised interactions, making AI-powered tools essential for modern retail operations. McKinsey's January 2025 report  revealed that AI implementations are delivering 15-30% improvements in customer service efficiency while reducing resolution times from 11 to 2 minutes. WWD's May 2024 coverage  highlighted how partnerships with OpenAI are enabling more sophisticated, human-like interactions in retail settings, particularly through natural language processing and voice-enabled technologies. Forbes' March 2025 analysis  showed that leading retailers are achieving 4.5% annual productivity growth through AI integration, compared to the industry's traditional 0.3% rate, demonstrating how tools like Mylow Companion can enhance both employee capabilities and operational efficiency. The integration with Lowe's loyalty program through the Digital Home Platform further shows how retailers can combine AI-powered staff support with personalised customer experiences to create comprehensive service solutions.

Lowe’s deploys AI-powered Assistant for associates chainwide