Report Shows Nearly Two-Thirds of Consumers Use AI for Produce Research
Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a standard part of the online shopping journey, signaling the early days of agentic commerce. According to new research from Clutch, most consumers now rely on AI to research and compare products, even as they stop short of handing over full purchasing control. About 65% of shoppers say they use AI during online shopping when researching products. The biggest draws are saving time, simplifying comparisons, and making more informed choices.
Clutch analyst Jeanette Godreau said, “Consumers are embracing AI as a research assistant. AI helps shoppers narrow choices faster, but it hasn’t replaced the human decision-maker.” Godreau also added, “Consumers are open to AI guidance, but they want clarity and accountability. Without transparency, AI recommendations feel risky rather than helpful.”
While usage is rising, trust has not kept pace. Almost all consumers express concerns about AI-assisted shopping, especially around data privacy, bias, and misuse of personal information. Only a small share (17%) trusts AI recommendations without double-checking them. Transparency plays a major role in easing hesitation: shoppers are more comfortable when AI tools clearly explain recommendations, offer multiple options, and disclose sponsored results. Consumers are also more comfortable using AI for household and electronic items, but are more reluctant when it comes to health and wellness products. The most significant insight in the report is that only 4% will allow AI to complete a purchase.
Gain more insights from the report here.
Hardee’s Makes a High-Profile Return to NASCAR as Official QSR Partner
NASCAR announced that Hardee’s is returning to the sport as its Official Quick Service Restaurant under a new multiyear agreement. The partnership also brings Hardee’s on board as a primary sponsor of 23XI Racing, with Bubba Wallace piloting the No. 23 Hardee’s car at select races beginning in Martinsville. Hardee’s branding will appear throughout the season on team uniforms, equipment, and Wallace’s firesuit.
NASCAR Chief Commercial Officer Craig Stimmel said, “Hardee’s is an American classic with deep roots in our sport, and its return represents more than a new partnership — it symbolizes the power and appeal of NASCAR’s heritage. As more legacy brands look to NASCAR to connect with loyal, multigenerational fanbases, Hardee’s stands out as a partner that understands the passion, tradition, and energy that fuel our community. We’re thrilled to welcome them back in such a significant way.”
The comeback builds on a deep legacy. Hardee’s was a fixture in NASCAR during the 1980s and 1990s, sponsoring Hall of Fame drivers and helping secure 12 NASCAR Cup Series victories. Standout moments include Bobby Allison’s three wins in 1981, highlighted by the Coca-Cola 600, and Cale Yarborough’s nine victories, including back-to-back Daytona 500 titles in 1983 and 1984. Now, the brand returns as NASCAR experiences renewed momentum and growing interest from iconic American companies. Beyond on-track visibility, Hardee’s will activate at major events, offer fan experiences through its My Rewards™ loyalty program, and collaborate with Wallace and 23XI Racing across digital, social, and community initiatives.
Learn more about the Hardee’s My Rewards loyalty program here.
Bojangles Foundation Awards 50 Literacy Grants to Community Organizations
The Bojangles Foundation recently announced the 50 recipients of its Annual Literacy Grant Program. This year’s honorees include several nonprofit and community organizations working to advance literacy across Bojangles’ markets. Each selected organization received a $1,000 grant to support programs that encourage reading, learning, and educational access. Grant recipients span multiple states within Bojangles’ footprint, including South Carolina, North Carolina, and Alabama. The funding is designed to strengthen local reading initiatives, expand access to books and educational materials, and create meaningful learning opportunities for individuals of all ages. Together, these grants reinforce the Foundation’s mission to empower communities through literacy.
The Bojangles Foundation Executive Director, Ken Reynolds, said, “Literacy is the foundation for lifelong learning and opportunity, and we’re proud to support the organizations doing the hard work to help people of all ages build stronger reading and learning skills. Through the Bojangles Foundation Literary Grant Program, we’re investing in local partners across our markets who are expanding access to books and meeting communities where they are, so more learners can thrive.”
This year’s supported initiatives address a wide range of needs, from information literacy programs for cancer survivors to books and learning materials for deaf and hearing-impaired students. Grants also support multilingual book access for low-income schools, a donation to a Black woman-owned organization, reading resources in book deserts, book kits for children with cancer, and a STEM-focused summer reading program.
Learn more about the Bojangles Foundation here.
Original Article Links:
Clutch Report: 65% of Consumers Use AI to Research Products Before Making a Purchase
Hardee's Returns to NASCAR as an Official Partner; Joins 23XI Racing as Primary Partner of Bubba Wallace and the No. 23 Team
Bojangles Foundation Awards $50,000 in Grants to Nonprofits Supporting Literacy