The Home Depot has entered a strategic collaboration with Rilla, a leading AI-powered field team performance platform, to deploy real-time coaching tools across its network of over 2,353 retail stores and 800 distribution branches in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Starting in 2026, service and sales professionals will leverage Rilla’s machine-learning algorithms to identify communication patterns, surface coaching opportunities and track progress against performance benchmarks. The initiative targets a 15% improvement in customer satisfaction scores within the first year and underscores Home Depot’s commitment to consistent, high-quality service at scale.

Building on its existing digital investments, Home Depot has deepened its partnership with Google Cloud to integrate Gemini models into its Magic Apron virtual assistant and develop AI-driven product list builders. The rollout will extend to Google Search’s AI Mode and the Gemini mobile app, enabling real-time expert guidance for both DIY homeowners and professional contractors. Internally, the company expects these enhancements to reduce average call-center handle time by 20% and increase conversion rates on online orders by 8% during fiscal 2026.

With analysts forecasting a potential uptick in housing starts and home improvement spend in 2026, The Home Depot is bolstering its Pro customer segment through tailored financing solutions and expedited supply-chain upgrades. The company has invested in automated distribution centers in Atlanta and Dallas, aimed at cutting delivery lead times by 30%. Leadership projects that these measures, combined with a low-interest rate environment, could drive mid‐single-digit comparable sales growth when the market recovers.