Batteries Plus has introduced three artificial intelligence tools to optimize operations across its network of over 700 retail locations. The company expects the full deployment of these systems to be completed by the end of September.
The primary tool, Edison, is a voice assistant developed with Synthflow that manages incoming store calls in English and Spanish. It handles routine inquiries regarding store hours, directions, and product advice, while also filtering out spam calls.
The retailer also launched Wattson, a search tool integrated into the point-of-sale system. It streamlines product identification by skipping unnecessary steps, starting with the automotive category, with further product categories expected by year-end.
The third tool, Savannah, is an SMS-based agent designed for franchise development. It provides information to prospective owners and automates the process by scheduling discovery calls and sending application materials directly to leads.
Company leadership describes the initiative as a multimillion-dollar investment aimed at capturing lost sales. The tools are designed to allow store associates to focus on in-person customer service rather than managing phone traffic.