Exploring The Role of AI-Driven Smart Technologies in Enhancing In-Store Consumer Engagement

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the retail landscape, particularly through the integration of AI-driven smart technologies in physical store environments. This study investigates the impact of AI-enabled tools—including smart checkout systems, AI-based product recommendations, interactive kiosks, and augmented reality features—on consumer engagement, satisfaction, and decision-making during in-store shopping. A quantitative research design was employed, collecting data from 150 retail shoppers in Coimbatore city using simple random sampling. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires and analyzed using percentage analysis, multiple dichotomy analysis, and descriptive statistics to examine demographic profiles, technology usage patterns, and consumer perceptions. The findings reveal that AI technologies significantly enhance the shopping experience by improving convenience, personalization, confidence in product selection, and overall satisfaction. Smart checkout systems and product recommendation tools were the most widely adopted, while advanced technologies such as real-time inventory systems and in-store navigation tools showed limited adoption. Middle-aged, well-educated, and middle-income consumers were the dominant users, indicating demographic trends in AI adoption. The study highlights the transformative role of AI in increasing engagement, influencing purchase intentions, and creating enjoyable, immersive, and efficient in-store experiences. The results provide actionable insights for retailers, technology developers, and policymakers to optimize AI implementation, enhance consumer satisfaction, and develop ethical, inclusive, and effective AI strategies in physical retail environments.