A new report from CoBank advises agriculture retail companies to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) “to optimize workflows, inventory management, employee performance and other key business functions.”
It said AI “can also enhance their position as trusted advisors and essential partners in the ag supply chain.”
It can be utilized in a company’s back office, front office as well as within agronomy and supply chain operations divisions said Jacqui Fatka, farm supply and biofuels economist with CoBank.
While AI is unlikely to eliminate ag retail jobs, it can help simplify tasks and reduce human error or bias. In addition, as labor continues to be a challenge for many rural enterprises, it can provide continuity during labor turnover. AI can also help agronomists and other staff cover more acres or customers.
“Early adoption and reliable partnerships will provide an advantage for those willing to test the AI landscape. Ag retailers should research companies and pick AI partners who understand agriculture and promise value beyond just lofty ROIs.”
She suggested starting with recording virtual meetings with CoPilot and then for standard business tasks such as human resources accounting, operations and sales.
While AI is unlikely to eliminate ag retail jobs, it can help simplify tasks and reduce human error or bias, she wrote.
It can provide continuity during labor turnover and can also help agronomists and other staff cover more acres or customers.
“The stakes are high for agribusinesses operating in an environment where margins are tight,” Fatka said.
