Mr. DIY building team to launch AI-powered retail store

Dubbed Mr. Robot, the initiative aims to bring AI components and products directly to customers. "We’re launching a new retail model that brings AI products directly to everyday shoppers. From smart devices to AI-driven tools, this is retail’s next evolution," Mr. DIY said, adding that the venture will pioneer the AI and robotics retail concept.

As part of this move, the company is looking for a technical lead for robotics and AI solutions who will prototype solutions, integrate sensors and intelligence, and ensure their smooth operations in customer environments. It also advertised for a business development manager who will execute the Mr. Robot business plan; identify and propose new business models around robotics retail, AI consumer products, and experiential tech; and conduct market research into AI gadgets, robotic trends, and consumer needs, as well as work on the sourcing, pricing, and positioning of AI-related products. 

The company added that it was looking for "innovators, builders, and pioneers who want to shape the future of shopping". All these would culminate in the launch of a Mr. Robot "experience store" that will showcase the company’s AI retail concept, Mr. DIY states.

As of press time, details of the AI-powered retail store are sparse. However, Mr. DIY has already incorporated some interactive and technology-driven elements in some of its premium stores. At the Mr. DIY Plus branch in the state of Johor Bahru, for instance, an interactive LED panel screen that allows shoppers to play a video game dominates a wall in the store. It also has the Infinity Room, an immersive art installation designed with mirrors and lights to create the illusion of endless space. More functionally, Mr. DIY has introduced self-checkout kiosks in selected branches in Malaysia -- although it is hardly the pioneer for this concept.  

The move, according to Mr. DIY marketing head Alex Goh, is in line with company research that showed that shoppers not only want convenience and value for money, but entertainment as well. "Our research shows that post-pandemic, customers want the assurance of low prices more than ever, but in fun, interesting and interactive ways – they want to be entertained. Mr.DIY Plus promises customers that they can still continue to shop for their daily essentials at everyday low prices, but also be entertained, educated and inspired in the process," said Goh in a statement during the launch of the Johor branch of Mr. DIY Plus.  

Mr. DIY’s move…