B&Q and Screwfix owner Kingfisher has launched the first AI-powered assistant in the home improvement sector, using generative AI to support customers at home with their DIY projects.
The AI assistant has initially launched in Castorama France, with plans to roll out to other retail banners across the Kingfisher Group as it 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?”.
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The assistant will answer in a friendly and conversational way with relevant advice, drawing on a wealth of DIY and product knowledge, while also operating in multiple languages.
Kingfisher group data director Tom Betts said: “Our new virtual assistant is designed to simplify the world of home improvement, making DIY projects easy and accessible for everyone. Whether you’re a DIY novice looking for advice getting started with a project, or an experienced DIYer in need of a technical answer quickly, our assistant will be on hand to support 24/7. We’re hugely excited by the potential of this technology and look forward to seeing the response from customers.”
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