Customers now arrive at stores better informed after using AI for research. Associates must still support or build on what shoppers learned. Retailers are adding branded AI chatbots and embedding AI in apps. Most retail sales still happen in stores with associate help. AI use before shopping changes what customers expect from in-store staff. Associates often confirm or add details to AI research. Training associates to handle AI-informed shoppers is now critical. AI can help associates work outside their usual departments. Poor AI tools frustrate associates and get abandoned. Associates need quick, reliable answers to match customer research time.