Key Takeaways HD and LOW are both scaling AI, but with contrasting strategies shaping the future of home improvement retail.HD uses AI to improve fulfillment, digital aid and Pro tools like Blueprint Takeoffs in its store network.LOW builds an AI-first engine, leveraging MyLowe to guide clients, empower associates and boost operations.In the rapidly evolving world of retail, the two dominant players in U.S. home improvement, The Home Depot, Inc. (HD) and Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (LOW) , are both investing hea ...

Core Insights - The traditional consumer journey in home projects is inefficient and cash-intensive, prompting retailers and construction managers to adopt AI for a more streamlined decision-making process [1] Group 1: Lowe's AI Initiatives - Lowe's has implemented the Mylow Companion across over 1,700 stores, providing in-store associates with real-time access to product specifications and inventory status [3] - The Mylow Companion tool enables associates to assist customers with material comparisons and installation steps, bridging the experience gap between new and seasoned employees [4] - Lowe's also launched a customer-facing version of the technology, Mylow, which offers AI-generated recommendations for home projects through its website and mobile app [5] Group 2: Home Depot AI Tools - Home Depot introduced Magic Apron, a conversational AI tool that aids customers in researching home improvement projects and planning [6] - The company also released Blueprint Takeoffs, which analyzes architectural drawings to generate material lists and cost estimates for contractors [7] - Home Depot's project-planning platform allows contractors to create materials lists, track orders, and set delivery preferences, enhancing their role in early project planning [9] Group 3: Procore's AI Features - Procore has integrated new AI capabilities through Procore Helix, which analyzes construction drawings to identify challenges and potential cost savings [11] - The platform can summarize lengthy specification manuals and draft standard documents, improving efficiency for project managers [12] - Procore's AI tools also analyze job-site photos to provide relevant information for safety and progress reporting, reducing administrative workloads [12]

Core Insights - The Home Depot, Inc. is focused on creating a seamless customer experience through its "One Home Depot" investment plan, which emphasizes supply chain expansion, technology investments, and digital enhancements [1][6] Group 1: AI-Powered Solutions - The company has introduced Blueprint Takeoffs, an AI-driven tool designed to assist professional renovators and builders in generating material lists and estimates more quickly and cost-effectively [2][4] - Blueprint Takeoffs can produce complete materials lists and project quotes within days, significantly reducing the time from weeks to days for this process [2][9] - This tool is part of a broader suite of Pro services that includes trade credit, order management, and flexible delivery options, enhancing the overall efficiency and convenience for professionals [3][4] Group 2: Business Strategy and Market Position - Home Depot is committed to expanding its business and capturing market share by creating an interconnected customer experience and enhancing its Pro wallet through a unique ecosystem of capabilities [6][7] - The company's interconnected retail strategy and robust technology infrastructure have improved online conversions, driven by enhanced search capabilities and a better Pro site experience [7] - Despite a challenging year, Home Depot's shares have declined by 18.5%, which is less than the industry average decline of 24.3% [10]