4. Ecomtent, a gen AI startup founded by former Amazon executive Max Sinclair, lands $1.4 million in funding
Ecomtent, a generative AI startup focused on helping sellers and retailers with AI powered search, has secured $1.4 million in funding.
The round was led by MaRS IAF, and included Twinpath, Techstars x eBay Ventures, and C-suite angels from retailers and the tech industry.
Founded in 2022 by Max Sinclair, a former Amazon executive who led key initiatives such as the launch of Amazon in Singapore and Amazon Grocery across the EU, and Timur Luguev, a PhD and Postdoctoral Researcher in machine learning, Ecomtent’s platform generates visual and written content optimised for AI powered search, such as Amazon’s RUFUS.
“The way people shop online is undergoing a profound transformation,” says Sinclair. “And therefore also how sellers and retailers optimise for discoverability and conversion is changing. Longtail keyword matching is dead. The future lies in aligning with customer intent, across both written and visual assets.”
5. Specialty food retailer The Fresh Market connects with VusionGroup for first Vusion 360 roll-out in North America
VusionGroup has been selected by The Fresh Market, an American fresh food and specialty grocery chain, to digitalise both signage and inventory management of its physical stores.
The tie up will bring in a suite of Vusion 360 technology solutions, including digital shelf labels, VusionCloud, Captana’s computer vision and AI technology, and Memory Store Analytics to all 166 locations across the United States, marking the first Vusion 360 roll-out in North America.
The aim here is to improve merchandising, inventory management, product quality, and efficiency while minimising waste. Additionally, using Cisco Meraki infrastructure already in place in stores, The Fresh Market will automatically connect VusionGroup’s IoT to existing access points, eliminating the need for additional hardware and reducing both the carbon footprint and operational costs.
“We’re thrilled to team up with VusionGroup and introduce their technology to The Fresh Market. With this integration, we’re transforming our stores into fast and efficient spaces.” says Brian Johnson, COO at The Fresh Market. “This partnership not only shows our dedication to elevating the shopping experience for our guests but also reflects our commitment to supporting our incredible team members.”
6. Best Buy Ads Canada taps Rokt machine learning and AI tech to power relevant messages from third-party brands
Rokt has announced a partnership with Best Buy Ads Canada.
Best Buy Ads Canada will use its technology to power relevant messages from third-party brands, whose products and services the company does not directly sell itself, on the confirmation page of the Best Buy Canada e-commerce site.
“Our partnership with Rokt gives us a new way to enhance the online customer experience by presenting shoppers with offers and messages that are relevant to them,” says Tara Wilkinson, Director of Strategy, Best Buy Canada.
“Ad personalisation is critical to the online customer experience. Rokt’s technology delivers superior ad engagement which speaks directly to relevance, and that’s why we chose to partner with Rokt – their offering is refreshingly unique.”
7. RTIH AI in Retail Awards celebrates technology innovation amid a digital transformation revolution
RTIH, organiser of the industry leading RTIH Innovation Awards, proudly brings you the first edition of the RTIH AI in Retail Awards, which is now open for entries.
As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers’ businesses.
As AI sees increasing adoption in the retail space, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.
Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work – resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.
Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 3rd July. This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.