Ross Stores AI Adoption Tracker
Last updated: August 9, 2026
Overview
Ross Stores Inc., operating as the largest off-price apparel and home fashion retailer in the U.S., shows limited evidence of significant AI adoption compared to other major retailers. While the company has deployed some basic AI technologies including self-checkout pilots and technology infrastructure upgrades, there are no publicly disclosed comprehensive AI strategies or initiatives that demonstrate meaningful business transformation[1]. The company has partnered with OnePlan for portfolio management within its IT operations, helping standardize workflows and improve project tracking, though this represents traditional enterprise software rather than advanced AI[2]. Ross's focus remains primarily on its proven off-price retail model, with expansion efforts adding 90 new stores in 2025[3]. Unlike competitors such as Walmart and Target who have announced major AI partnerships and initiatives, Ross appears to be in the early stages of AI exploration with most mentions being theoretical rather than implemented solutions[4].
AI Maturity Index
Radar Comparison
Peer Comparison: Ross Stores vs retail
Based on 41 companies in sector
| Dimension | Ross Stores | Sector Avg | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adoption | 2.0 | 3.5 | -1.5 |
| Proficiency | 1.0 | 3.2 | -2.2 |
| Impact | 1.0 | 3.3 | -2.3 |
| Overall | 1.3 | 3.3 | -2.0 |
Key Metrics
AI Initiatives
Self-Checkout Pilot Program
2025
Piloting self-checkout technology in select store locations
Ross is piloting self-checkout in 80 locations and aims to expand those efforts in 2026, mainly in high-volume locations
Frequently Asked Questions
Ross Stores has implemented limited AI initiatives, primarily focusing on self-checkout pilots in 80 locations and using OnePlan for IT portfolio management. The company has not announced major AI transformation programs like other retailers.
While theoretical AI use cases for inventory management have been discussed in industry analyses, Ross Stores has not publicly disclosed specific AI-powered inventory management systems or demand forecasting tools.
Yes, Ross Stores appears to lag significantly behind major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon in AI adoption. While competitors have announced major AI partnerships and initiatives, Ross's AI efforts remain minimal and largely theoretical.
Ross Stores has not publicly disclosed a comprehensive AI strategy. The company appears to be focusing on its core off-price retail model and physical store expansion rather than major AI transformation initiatives.
Ross Stores significantly trails retailers like Walmart (with its AI framework and partnerships), Target (with OpenAI integration), and Amazon (with Rufus AI assistant) in terms of AI implementation and public disclosure of AI initiatives.
In Application
| Application | Vendor | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| OnePlan | OnePlan Solutions | Project portfolio management with AI-enhanced workflow automation and reporting for IT operations |
Sources
Ross rounds out store openings for the year with 40 new locations
Stylish Success: Ross Stores' IT PMO Journey with OnePlan
This discount retailer thrived in 2025 despite a volatile backdrop
Ross Stores: AI Use Cases 2024
Ross Stores 10-K Filing 2025
Related Companies
About AI Tracker
AI Tracker is a research project by Larridin, the AI execution intelligence platform.
Methodology: We analyze earnings calls, press releases, partnership announcements, and product documentation. All assessments are based solely on publicly available information—no private customer data is used.
Maturity Scoring: Each dimension is rated on a 4-tier scale (Nascent → Emerging → Scaling → Leading) based on evidence from public sources. Industry averages are computed as the median across all tracked companies in the sector.