…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into business operations is gaining traction worldwide, with numerous global companies exploring its use or expanding their focus on AI.
This trend is also apparent among the UK’s leading listed employers. Inquiring about their AI investment plans and the importance of exploring new technologies in this field, the Evening Standard reached out to FTSE 100 companies.
While not all members of the index provided comments, several firms shared their perspectives on AI adoption. Here is an overview of what some of these companies had to say.
BT: Revolutionizing Telecommunications and IT Systems
BT, a major telecommunications company that owns EE, recognizes the potential of AI and automation to transform its business and the entire telecoms industry.
As part of their strategic vision, BT plans to invest in AI and automation, which may result in the shedding of approximately 10,000 jobs by the end of the decade.
Moreover, the company is actively developing AI-powered self-healing IT systems that can automatically identify and resolve faults, reducing the need for human intervention.
Coca-Cola HBC: Leveraging Augmented Reality and Observing AI Opportunities
Coca-Cola HBC, a leading bottling company, has been investing in AI for some time and intends to continue doing so.
The company already uses augmented reality smart glasses to enhance warehouse operations, allowing employees to track and select stock more effectively.
While actively observing and experimenting with generative AI, Coca-Cola HBC prioritizes building the necessary capabilities and expertise within its teams to fully exploit the potential of AI and maintain its competitive edge.
Compass: Applying AI in Catering and Data Analysis
Compass, a catering giant providing meals in schools and offices, recognizes the benefits of AI for its workforce.
The company views AI as a tool to free up its employees from mundane administrative tasks, enabling them to focus on delivering better experiences to clients and consumers.
Compass applies machine learning to aggregate data, enabling real-time sales reporting, sales volume prediction, optimal pricing, and efficient procurement.
Experian: Investing in AI for Enhanced Services
Experian, a credit data firm, emphasizes its commitment to innovation and investing in the latest technologies, including AI.
With a team of data scientists and analytics experts, Experian leverages AI tools to improve its services and help clients enhance their own offerings.
The company acknowledges the complex nature of the datasets it works with and the potential of next-generation AI to further augment its capabilities.
GSK: Advancing AI in Biopharma Research and Development
GSK, a UK-based pharmaceutical company, has established an in-house division dedicated to AI in biopharma.
The company’s team in Kings Cross focuses on AI and data work, aiming to drive innovation and accelerate research and development processes.
GSK recognizes that the application of AI technologies can revolutionize the productivity of R&D, a critical challenge in the pharmaceutical sector.
By leveraging AI, GSK seeks to deliver faster solutions and drive innovation in the industry.
Hargreaves Lansdown: Exploring Machine Learning for Investment Platform
Hargreaves Lansdown, an investment platform, plans to hire new staff members with expertise in machine learning.
The company believes AI has potential use cases across its entire business and aims to incorporate the latest advancements in the field.
By leveraging AI, Hargreaves Lansdown aims to enhance productivity, improve client and colleague experiences, simplify processes, and deliver accurate information efficiently.
IHG Hotels & Resorts: Enhancing Guest Experiences with AI
IHG Hotels & Resorts, the company behind renowned brands such as Crowne Plaza and InterContinental, has been leveraging machine learning for several years.
The company’s technology initiatives include a digital concierge chatbot that engages in millions of conversations with customers online.
IHG recognizes the importance of using AI to improve guest experiences while enabling hotel staff to focus on providing exceptional service.
Imperial Brands: Streamlining Operations and Addressing Risks
Imperial Brands, a tobacco group, is exploring the potential of generative AI to streamline its operations and improve decision-making processes.
The company acknowledges the associated risks and emphasizes the importance of providing guidelines for responsible AI use to its employees.
London Stock Exchange Group: Utilizing AI for Enhanced Data Analysis
The London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) has been utilizing AI technology across its products and services for some time.
LSEG aims to explore additional use cases to enhance customer experiences and data analysis.
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of businesses investing in and leveraging AI to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and enhance customer experiences.
As the potential of AI continues to unfold, companies across various industries are recognizing the value it brings and are actively exploring ways to integrate this transformative technology into their operations.