Marks & Spencer is collaborating with Microsoft in a new plan which entails testing the integration of artificial intelligence technology in the retailer’s stores and wider business.

The partnership will see the two businesses work together to explore how the technology can be used within the retail environment to improve the customer experience and optimise operations.

In a statement, M&S said "a team of world-class AI engineers and product personnel from Microsoft will partner with the M&S Retail Labs team to accelerate the retailer’s digital transformation."

Steve Rowe, M&S chief executive, said: “M&S is transforming into a digital first retailer, at a time when the sector is undergoing a customer-led revolution. We want to be at the forefront of driving value into the customer experience using the power of technology.

“Working together with Microsoft to understand the full potential of how technology and artificial intelligence can improve the in-store experience for our customers and the efficiencies of our wider operations could be a game changer for M&S – and for retail.”