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Training Evolved How AI is Helping Independent Retailers Train Teams Faster and More Consistently

AI-driven training tools are helping independent retailers deliver consistent education across teams, even when employees work different shifts or locations.

A rtificial intelligence is quickly becoming part of everyday retail, helping stores train employees, communicate more clearly and use time more effectively. For independent retailers, AI-driven tools are starting to fill gaps where traditional training often falls short, short on time, hard to schedule and difficult to deliver consistently. As part of that shift, the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) is using technology to create faster, more practical training options designed for the realities of independent home improvement retail.

to deliver meaningful development in the moments when teams actually have time—right before a shift, during a huddle or even between customers.” Expanding the reach of the program and meeting employees where they are, the videos are available in English, Spanish and French-Canadian. “Offering RetailWise in English, Spanish and French-Canadian ensures training is accessible to entire teams—not just a few individuals,” Goeppner says. “When everyone can learn in their preferred language, the whole operation wins.” RetailWise training categories include customer experience and sales techniques, leadership and people development, operational excellence, merchandising and inventory management, marketing and local promotion, safety and risk management, retail tech simplified and store culture and team engagement.

RetailWise delivers fast, high-impact two-minute training videos developed with artificial intelligence that are designed to strengthen the frontline skills of independent hardware, paint and lumber retailers. Built for use in team huddles, during shift meetings and throughout the onboarding process, this series will help improve performance, culture and consistency without disrupting store operations. Designed for today’s fast-paced retail environment, RetailWise delivers 52 professionally scripted video lessons. “Two minutes may seem short, but when that time is intentional and focused, it becomes incredibly powerful. These micro-lessons help retailers strengthen their teams without pulling them off the salesfloor,” says Cody Goeppner, NHPA director of education and training. “Independent retailers need training that moves at the speed of their stores. RetailWise was designed

38 Spring 2026 • Hardlines Strategies