AI

AI use as shopping tool gains traction

Generated by AI/Adobe Stock

April 7, 2026

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Artificial intelligence tools are being used for shopping, especially among the Gen Z consumer as consumers are seeing value in AI's ability find deals, do comparisons on price and features and provide inspiration for meals and brand research.

Those are top findings from Numerator's "2026 Visions Report," that provides insight into U.S. consumer trends for the year ahead, according to a press release.

The report revealed 12% of consumers are using AI to help with shopping and that 2026 may be a year where consumers vote with their dollars as 48% of consumers would stop buying from a retailer that takes a political or social stance that is not aligned with their values.

When it comes to consumer boycott activity, 38% of consumer participated in at least one consumer boycott in the past year.