According to a report by Inside Retail Asia , the rise of AI-powered search tools is fundamentally changing how consumers discover products online, leading to a decline in traditional website traffic for many retailers.

Retailers that once relied on search engine optimization are finding that AI search assistants now bypass standard search results, directing users to specific products or summaries. This shift requires a new approach to digital marketing strategies.

To adapt, experts recommend focusing on structured data, brand authority, and direct customer engagement rather than solely on click-through rates. Retailers must evolve their online presence to remain visible in an AI-driven discovery landscape.