By Maryam Cockar

 

Marks & Spencer Group PLC (MKS.LN) said Thursday that it will explore how Microsoft Corp.'s (MSFT) artificial-intelligence technology can be used to improve customer experience and optimize retail operations.

FTSE 100-listed M&S said the strategic partnership with the U.S. technology company is part of its strategy to become a "digital-first retailer" and forms part of its wider transformation program.

As part of the collaboration, the company said a team of Microsoft artificial-intelligence engineers and product personnel will partner with M&S's technology team to accelerate the retailer's digital transformation. No financial details about the partnership were disclosed.

M&S Chief Executive Steve Rowe said working with Microsoft to understand how artificial intelligence can improve the in-store experience for customers and wider operations could be a "game changer for M&S--and for retail."

At 1250 GMT, M&S shares were down 0.3% at 292.80 pence.

 

Write to Maryam Cockar at maryam.cockar@dowjones.com

 

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

June 21, 2018 09:19 ET (13:19 GMT)

Copyright (c) 2018 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.
Marks and Spencer (QX) (USOTC:MAKSY)
Historical Stock Chart
Von Okt 2024 bis Nov 2024 Click Here for more Marks and Spencer (QX) Charts.
Marks and Spencer (QX) (USOTC:MAKSY)
Historical Stock Chart
Von Nov 2023 bis Nov 2024 Click Here for more Marks and Spencer (QX) Charts.