Walmart Uses Generative AI to Speed Up Fashion Product Development
DALLAS, TX —
Walmart has unveiled a new AI tool named “Trend-to-Product.” The tool cuts the time to bring fashion items to market. The news came at an investment meeting in Dallas. This move helps Walmart stand strong in a fast-changing retail field.
Speed and Efficiency in Fashion
Retail demands fast reactions. Walmart’s tool cuts its fashion development time from six months to six weeks. Vinod Bidarkoppa, chief technology officer for international operations, said the AI tool gathers data from social media. The tool then makes mood boards. Designers and buyers use these boards to make choices swiftly. Tasks that once took days now finish in minutes. Bidarkoppa compared the change to a shift from plain work to a magic touch.
Addressing Market Pressures
The tool appears as external pressures rise for retailers. Tariffs may soon be higher on imported goods. A past government plan would triple tariffs on some items from China. Walmart now works with faster production steps. The company admits tariffs may change its sources but keeps low prices as a top goal. Andrea Albright, executive vice president of sourcing, said fast pace is not the only aim. “We do not need speed for its own sake. Not all items must arrive in stores in six weeks,” she said. This view shows Walmart’s care for fair and responsible sourcing.
Innovations Beyond Fashion
Walmart plans to use the Trend-to-Product tool in other product areas soon. The tool will also work with seasonal items and general merchandise. Bidarkoppa said, “We see a chance to act in a new way and bring items to life faster.” The tool already helped create pieces for Walmart’s well-known No Boundaries brand. That work sparked solid sales in February.
Conclusion
Walmart’s use of generative AI shows a strong push for progress in retail. The company meets market challenges and serves customer needs with this technology. As Walmart adjusts to global trade and shifting tastes, the Trend-to-Product tool marks a big step in speeding work and matching products with buyers.
