After ChatGPT come the robots: 17% of the retail sector is already using or evaluating physical artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence is beginning to move beyond screens and into warehouses, distribution centers, and retail logistics operations. Following the rise of generative AI and large language models, companies are starting to explore a new technological phase: physical artificial intelligence, which combines intelligent software with robots and equipment capable of interacting with the real world. 17% of retail and consumer packaged goods companies are already using or evaluating physical AI and robotics solutions, according to NVIDIA’s report, State of AI in Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods: 2026 Trends. Although adoption is still in its early stages, the report suggests that these technologies could become one of the next major areas of transformation for supply chains.