SAN FRANCISCO, June 3, 2024 –  – Algolia, the world’s only end-to-end AI Search platform, today announced the selection by JD Sports (‘JD’), the leading global sports fashion retailer, to implement a state-of-the-art AI Search solution as part of a strategic move towards revolutionizing their online presence and stores worldwide based on an omnichannel, composable approach.

This strategic selection is a key component of JD overarching modernization and re-platforming initiative, aimed at transforming their e-commerce sites, bolstering their global omnichannel strategy, and maximizing revenue through retail media networks. This effort is complemented by the simultaneous rebranding of the company to reflect its commitment to innovation and further cements its customer-centricity.

A central tenet of JD’s’ modernization is their API-first approach. This provides a dynamic framework that allows for swift adaptation and integration of diverse applications and services. Of particular note are the advantages of APIs within a composable strategy that enables JD Sports to create modular, interchangeable components. This streamlines the development process, and fosters an environment where functionalities can be assembled and reassembled efficiently, promoting even further innovation and flexibility.

According to the MACH (Microservices, API-first, Cloud-native, and Headless) Alliance, who offer a set of best practices emphasizing agility, scalability, and the seamless integration of technologies, JD will benefit from enhanced time-to-market, improved scalability, and the ability to stay ahead in a rapidly changing technological landscape, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and future-ready digital infrastructure.

Algolia recognizes the significant impact of technology on shaping the future of JD Sports' e-commerce and customer engagement. JD has strategically opted for Algolia's API-first AI Search solution. This decision positions JD Sports to provide their customers with a more intuitive, personalized, and seamless shopping experience.

Arianne Parisi, EVP Chief Digital Officer at JD noted: “We are excited to embark on this journey with Algolia as a strategic partner in our modernization and re-platforming efforts. By leveraging Algolia's cutting-edge AI technology, we aim to provide our customers with a seamless and personalized shopping experience, whether they engage with us online, in one of our 3,400+ stores, or through other channels.”

Key highlights of JD selection include:

1. Enhanced E-commerce Experience: Algolia's AI search solution will elevate the browsing and shopping experience on JD e-commerce sites, providing customers with more accurate and relevant search results.
2. Omnichannel Modernization: JD is executing a comprehensive modernization of its omnichannel strategy, ensuring a cohesive and integrated experience for customers across all its digital platforms.
3. Global AI Search and Revenue Analytics: Algolia will deliver vector-based search at massive scale and unlock a new set of revenue analytics and data to feed and underpin JD business.

Bernadette Nixon, Chief Executive Officer, Algolia: “The collaboration between JD Sports and Algolia signifies a commitment to staying at the forefront of e-commerce innovation. As JD Sports executes its comprehensive modernization strategy, the implementation of Algolia's AI Search solution is expected to contribute significantly to the company's growth and competitiveness in the digital retail landscape.”

Strong brand partnerships are in the DNA of JD, and the deal will provide substantial opportunity for JD to showcase its unique multi-brand, omnichannel proposition. Consumers will benefit from a more seamless and innovative access to the latest styles from some of the world’s largest brands including Nike, Adidas, New Balance, The North Face, Under Armour, and many others.

About JD Sports
Established in 1981 with a single store in the North West of England, the JD roup is a leading global omnichannel retailer of Sports Fashion and Outdoor brands. The Group now has over 3,400 stores across 38 territories with a strong presence in the UK, Europe, North America and Asia Pacific.

About Algolia
Algolia is a leading provider of AI search solutions, serving over 17,000 businesses and 500,000 developers globally. Renowned for its user-friendly API-First platform and the fastest AI search technology, Algolia is the largest hosted search engine, trusted by businesses and developers for 1.75 trillion searches per year. Backed by a decade of innovation, expertise, and growth, Algolia continuously redefines the search landscape with its commitment to user-friendly solutions, significant scalability, and unmatched speed. Learn more: www.algolia.com.