AI agents will strengthen customer loyalty for the retail industry in 2026

By Rosemary DeAragon, Global Head of Retail and Travel at Snowflake

The Indian retail industry is the third-largest in the world, contributing over 10% to the country’s GDP and around 8% to employment, as per a report by the IBEF. In 2025, the segment witnessed unprecedented growth in quick deliveries, with each player introducing new features more frequently than ever to grab customers’ attention and loyalty.

With increased purchasing power, these quick deliveries have left customers wanting more within minutes, and a plethora of options to choose from across brands and platforms. As we enter 2026, retailers and brands must leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Agentic AI, along with an omnichannel approach, to enhance the customer experience. Whether it’s loyalty programs, recommendations, or special offers, AI will enable brands to go that extra mile to provide a seamless experience and ultimately increase revenue.

Prediction: AI agents will begin ...