It's no secret AI is reshaping retail buying. Recent research shows it now takes only 15 minutes to quantify supplier offers (versus 45 minutes pre-AI). For one retailer, the time it takes to prepare tailored feedback dropped from an hour to a mere 20 minutes.

The most successful buyers aren't being replaced by technology; they use it to amplify what they do best. Instead of spending hours on routine tasks, they’re using AI to dive deeper into strategic relationships and market analysis. That shift isn't just about efficiency; it's about unlocking entirely new ways to add value and become indispensable.

AI’s role in automating routine buying tasks

When AI automates routine processes, it enhances efficiency and accuracy while freeing up valuable time. Many buyers already take advantage of this technology to easily complete menial tasks and refocus on more strategic work. Here's how AI enhances buying processes:

• Inventory forecasting: AI taps into historical sales data, seasonal trends and real-time analytics to precisely predict inventory needs and reduce the risk of stockouts or overstocking.
• Vendor communication: Routine inquiries, updates and follow-ups with suppliers are handled seamlessly, speeding up communication and response times.
• Order processing: Manual errors are eliminated, and the order lifecycle speeds up.

The impact? Buyers have more bandwidth to focus on big-picture items like strategic decision-making, relationship management and creative problem-solving. 

The (non-AI) skills helping buyers thrive

While AI can take on routine tasks, the role of retail buyers is still evolving. The future of retail buying lies in leveraging human expertise to complement the capabilities of AI. Refining these skills while implementing AI will help retail buyers stand out:

• Relationship building: Trust and authentic connections are at the heart of strong vendor and stakeholder partnerships. This is where buyers shine: negotiating better deals and fostering long-term collaboration relies on the uniquely human ability to build meaningful relationships.
• Market trend analysis: While AI can identify patterns in data, it’s the buyer’s experience, nuances and intuition that transform those insights into actionable strategies. Understanding consumer behavior and anticipating emerging trends is crucial for staying ahead.
• Negotiation strategies: Effective negotiation requires creativity, empathy and adaptability, qualities that AI cannot replicate. Skilled buyers use these traits to navigate complex discussions and secure mutually beneficial outcomes.

The buyers who thrive aren’t competing with AI; they’re using it to amplify uniquely human strengths with data-driven precision.

Future-ready skills that will set you apart

To stand out among the competition, retail buyers should actively work to evolve their existing skillsets in response to the creation and use of new AI tools. Here’s how to future-proof yourself:

1. Develop data fluency: Understanding which AI insights matter and how to act on them separates good buyers from great ones.
   • Pro tip: Take courses in data analytics or familiarize yourself with retail-specific AI platforms.
2. Build technical confidence: You don't need to become a programmer, but knowing how AI tools work helps you use them more strategically.
   • Pro tip: Explore training programs or certifications focused on emerging technologies in retail.
3. Strengthen strategic thinking: AI excels at pattern recognition, but buyers bring the market intuition and relationship insights that turn data into decisions.
   • Pro tip: Practice brainstorming out-of-the-box solutions and challenging assumptions in everyday tasks.
4. Deepen vendor partnerships: The human element becomes more valuable when routine communication is automated. Focus on building relationships that drive long-term value.
   • Pro tip: Attend networking events, workshops and seminars to refine your relationship-building expertise. 

Buyers who proactively develop these skills can confidently adapt to new technologies, excel in their roles and remain indispensable contributors to their teams. It’s not about choosing between AI or humans. It’s about boosting productivity between the two.

Buyers empowered with AI

Leading retailers are discovering something interesting: when AI handles routine forecasting and order processing, they don’t just save time. They uncover strategic opportunities they never had the bandwidth to explore before.

Here’s what that looks like in practice: instead of spending hours reconciling supplier data, they’re analyzing market trends that inform six-month buying strategies. Rather than chasing down order confirmations, they’re building the vendor relationships that secure better terms and exclusive products.

This transformation isn’t about replacing human judgement with algorithms. It’s about freeing up the strategic thinking that makes great buyers indispensable. When the predictable work becomes automated, the creative problem-solving and relationship building that drives real business value can finally take center stage.

The use of AI technology in retail buying is the key that unlocks a more responsive, strategic and ultimately more successful retail ecosystem.

To learn more about how to transform your retail buying and the strategies that are working, visit us here.