Unilever has renewed its IT collaboration with Accenture to leverage generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in enhancing operational efficiency and boosting business agility.
The consumer goods giant aims to work alongside Accenture to create a framework that sets a new benchmark in GenAI-driven productivity. This initiative will involve expanding successful use cases that have proven effective in yielding cost savings and operational efficiencies across its global operations.
Hein Schumacher, CEO of Unilever, remarked, “We have already rolled out 500 AI applications within the company, significantly increasing our efficiency. As AI technology matures and becomes more intelligent and intuitive, we recognize there is even greater potential ahead.”
Of the 500 AI applications developed by Unilever, over 330 are currently active. These applications cover diverse business functions, including supply chain optimization, product development, marketing, and customer service. For example, in product development, Unilever’s scientists have been utilizing AI for over a decade to discover new ingredients and enhance their research capabilities.
“Our virtual experiments and data analysis are leading to advancements in biotechnology, microbiome studies, and the creation of new materials, resulting in patented technologies for our key brands,” the company stated.
In a blog discussing this research initiative, Unilever highlighted its use of AI-driven data analysis to explore the more than 100 trillion microbes associated with the human body and their roles in immune function and skin health.
“To grasp the interactions between the microbiome and external factors, we analyzed 12 terabytes of data to extract unique insights, a significant portion of which has already informed everyday products like Dove, Pond’s, and Vaseline, leading to revolutionary patented technology for healthier-looking skin,” the company noted.
Additionally, Unilever is applying AI to develop a customer connectivity model that streamlines collaborative planning, forecasting, and replenishment, creating an optimized supply chain that supports the entire business and its customers.
“As part of our strategy to drive swift growth, enhance productivity, and improve performance, we are delving deeper into AI. With Accenture’s top-tier tools and expertise, we will identify where AI can deliver the most transformative impact and yield the best returns,” Schumacher further emphasized.
Under the new agreement, Unilever will utilize Accenture’s GenWizard platform, which offers generative AI solutions for businesses. Accenture reports that GenWizard includes over 350 patents and a suite of ready-to-implement tools and frameworks designed to deliver AI applications aligned with business goals.
Unilever intends to investigate how the GenWizard platform can integrate with its own technology and digital product development, aiming to determine the areas where AI can have the most significant transformational effect and provide maximum returns. The company asserts that its expanded adoption of GenAI will facilitate increased investment in product research, development, and brand enhancement.
By incorporating AI into its strategic framework, Unilever seeks to unlock substantial value, gain a competitive edge, and establish new industry standards for AI-driven efficiency.