Howdens, a leading UK commercial kitchen supplier, has launched Chip, a new AI tool that aims to provide practical advice to tradespeople and make their jobs easier.
Chip is powered by Microsoft's generative AI technologies, including Azure OpenAI Service, Azure Cosmos DB, Azure AI Search and Applied AI Services, and will be available exclusively to customers with online trading accounts within the Howdens Trade App.
Chip offers step-by-step installation instructions, product guides and more general support, giving trade customers the information they need to do their best work, all in one app.
David Sturdee, chief customer officer at Howdens, said: “We are proud to announce the launch of our new AI tool, ‘Chip’.
“Building on the existing capabilities of our trade app, this development marks an advancement in our digital services.
“The tool is built using Microsoft AI technology and gives our trade account holders access to product and fitting support at the touch of a button, meaning support is available to our trade customers wherever and whenever they need it.”
Sturdee added that Howdens' collaboration with Microsoft has enabled the company to provide an industry-first tool that will make life significantly easier for the customers it trades with.
“The chip is just the start of Howdens' AI journey and we will continue to explore other ways AI can improve efficiency for our customers,” he said.
“We continue to collaborate with Microsoft on chip evolution as we continue to evolve our chips to meet industry and customer demands.”
Lowering Barriers
“Retail is one of the most dynamic and competitive industries in the world, and customer expectations are constantly changing,” said Olaf Akkerman, general manager, retail and consumer, Microsoft.
“Microsoft has lowered the barrier to entry to building generative AI solutions that improve customer experiences, empower employees and drive innovation.
“We’re thrilled to be working with Howdens to help artisans across the country harness the power of AI to easily find the information they need, when they need it most.”
Chips are currently available to online trading account customers using the Howdens Trade App.
