Kingfisher has launched the first AI-powered assistant in the home improvement sector, harnessing the capability of generative AI to support customers with their DIY projects.
Launching initially at Castorama France, the virtual assistant answers customers’ DIY queries and provides step-by-step advice on a range of home improvement projects, as well as tailored product recommendations.
Customers can ask the assistant questions in natural language while shopping online – for example “how do I install a worktop in my kitchen” or “which saw should I choose to cut my worktop?”. The assistant will answer in a friendly and conversational way with relevant advice, drawing on a wealth of DIY and product knowledge.
As well as conversing with customers via text chat, the assistant will soon be able analyse photos to perform visual searches and answer visual queries. By uploading a photo, a customer will able to use the assistant to identify a particular part – for example “I want to replace this broken part of my sink but I don’t know what it’s called” or “I’d like to find another cushion like this one”.
The assistant will initially provide advice in relation to power tools, before being extended to cover Castorama’s full range of products.
The assistant is capable of operating in multiple languages, and if it proves successful, it will ultimately be rolled out to other banners across the Kingfisher Group.
