British supermarket Asda has partnered with Microsoft for a cloud-first operational model, with Azure as the backbone. It’s one of the UK’s largest tech deals, aiming to drive business efficiencies. Asda will use AI tools like Copilot Studio for faster, customized services, supporting quick adoption of next-gen cloud solutions.

The partnership with Microsoft enables Asda to embed new technologies into core operations, improving decision-making and customer insight. Asda colleagues will benefit from Microsoft training programs, enhancing digital skills. Asda also began a trial of live facial recognition technology to enhance staff and customer safety amid rising retail crime.

In a separate development, online retailer Asos entered a three-year partnership with Microsoft to reinforce data-driven decision-making. Asos will leverage AI features like process automation and Copilot for Microsoft 365 and Github. The partnership enhances Asos’ use of Microsoft solutions for improved operational efficiency and decision-making.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Asda enters cloud partnership with Microsoft