AI traffic to retailers surges, boosting revenue significantly

AI-driven traffic to U.S. retail websites experienced a dramatic 393% increase in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the previous year, according to Adobe data. This surge in AI usage for online shopping is not only increasing website visits but also significantly improving key performance metrics. AI-powered shoppers are converting at a higher rate, engaging more deeply with content, spending more time on sites, and generating substantially more revenue per visit than human shoppers.