Retail workers face a shift in their daily duties as artificial intelligence reduces routine workload, according to Rustam Ainetdinov, director of School 21.
Ainetdinov said in comments provided to news outlet Lenta.ru that the active adoption of digital technologies will not eliminate mass professions. Instead, automated systems will take over a portion of the tasks currently assigned to traditional store personnel.
These shifting workforce trends are already visible across the retail industry, where stores have begun adopting specialized equipment and store management software. Ainetdinov pointed out that several retail chains are already operating automated scales, camera monitoring networks, and digital inventory systems.
Digital tools are being used to monitor activities in sales areas, recognize individual products, track shelf displays, and identify items that are approaching their expiration dates. These systems collect real-time data to help store managers keep track of stock levels and maintain store layout standards.
Despite the increase in automation, human employees will remain a critical component of retail operations. Ainetdinov explained that while the system handles routine operations, staff members must supervise its performance, inspect the results, and step in to handle non-standard situations.
The technology shift alters the daily role of retail workers rather than replacing them. Ainetdinov emphasized that employees are receiving new job functions, making it essential for workers to understand how automated systems operate and how to use them effectively where they provide genuine assistance.
Retail technology and training
School 21 is an IT educational initiative in Russia that offers free hands-on training in digital skills and software development. The school works to prepare individuals for changing technological demands across major economic sectors, including logistics, administration, and commercial retail.
The discussion around retail automation comes as government officials evaluate the broader consequences of artificial intelligence on the national workforce. Anton Kotyakov, the head of Russia's labor ministry, previously addressed concerns regarding technological unemployment.
Kotyakov stated that technological progress is not expected to trigger a rise in unemployment across the country. He noted that, given the specific characteristics of the domestic labor market, artificial intelligence is projected to assist with approximately 7.5 percent of professional tasks rather than replace human workers.
Impact on store operations
As retail chains continue to roll out digital monitoring systems, store staff are expected to transition increasingly from manual checking duties to supervisory roles. Retailers are focusing on training employees to work alongside digital tools, ensuring human oversight remains in place for customer interactions and complex store management decisions.
