Debenhams Group launches AI education programme for staff

Debenhams Group‘s AI Skills Academy hopes to fast track the group’s AI capabilities and “equip employees with practical AI skills”.

The new programme is available for all employees at the group and is fully funded via its £1.35m apprenticeship levy.

Debenhams Group said it hopes the programme will “close the AI skills gap” and teach technical skills, and behaviours required to utilise AI in day-to-day tasks.

This includes the use of AI tools to boost productivity, streamline operations and build systems in-house to supercharge the retailer’s digital strategy.

The fashion giant said in a statement that this move will ensure staff are “empowered” with the skills required to “lead in a fast-moving retail landscape”.

Debenhams Group chief executive Dan Finley said: “Adopting AI is not just about investing in our systems – it’s about investing in our people.

“With the launch of the AI Skills Academy, we’re giving our teams the tools to think differently, work smarter and build for the future. This is about unlocking the potential of every colleague to drive real innovation across the group.”

The news comes after suppliers to the group, whose portfolio includes Debenhams, Boohoo and Karen Millen, told Drapers last week that they are owed thousands of pounds in late payments. Debenhams Group declined to comment.

The group’s annual results are expected to be published in the coming weeks.