Everyone’s excited that AI is driving purchases now.

People are asking ChatGPT what to buy, and it’s actually recommending products. That part is true.

What nobody’s talking about is what happens right after.

​New research looked at how Gen Z actually shops with AI, and they found that 48% of Gen Z buyers had already purchased something an AI recommended.

But 43% had also switched to a different brand specifically because of how a brand used AI.

Thing is, we assume younger buyers will tolerate anything brands do with tech. They grew up online, they’re used to it, they’ll just accept it.

The data says the opposite.

The more used to AI they get, the quicker they catch when it’s used in a way that feels confusing or in your face ways. And they just leave.

About 25% said they’d stop sticking with a brand over AI use they didn’t know about.

Just, you used AI and kept it quiet, so we’re out.

The practical part for anyone starting an online store right now: if you’re using any AI in your product descriptions, recommendations, or chat support, just say so.

Even just a single line. “We use AI to help surface products you might like.” That’s it.

You don’t need a long policy page, just don’t pretend it isn’t happening.

The buyers most likely to find you using AI are the same ones most likely to walk away if they feel tricked by it.

The trust part costs nothing. Losing it costs everything.

Talk soon,

Minosh

If you’re thinking about getting your products in front of people who shop through ChatGPT and Gemini, Shopify’s Agentic Storefronts does exactly that, with sales running through Shopify’s checkout across all the major AI platforms.

Affiliate link above. Costs you nothing extra, helps keep this newsletter free.