Coles Group and Microsoft sign five-year cloud

Aussie retailer Coles Group has signed a five-year partnership with Microsoft for cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. Coles will be using Microsoft's cloud, AI, and Edge computing offerings to develop an AI-as-a-Service platform and to modernize its IT estate. The agreement is hoped to increase "diversified revenue streams" for Coles by increasing the company's reach.

“We are delighted to refresh our longstanding partnership with Microsoft to drive our strategic priorities and create more value for our customers, team members, suppliers, and shareholders,” said John Cox, CTO at Coles. “Microsoft’s proven expertise and innovative solutions will help us build the digital foundations and enablers that will empower us in our purpose of helping Australians to live and eat better every day.”

Steven Worrall, managing director at Microsoft ANZ, said: “We’re thrilled to deepen our partnership with Coles, a true leader in Australian retail. Together, we’ll leverage Microsoft’s cloud, AI, and edge computing capabilities to drive meaningful transformation, helping Coles stay ahead in an ever-evolving, customer-first landscape."