Artificial intelligence is moving beyond answering questions. In 2026, agentic AI is increasingly capable of helping consumers discover products, compare options, complete purchases, and navigate post-purchase experiences — a shift with major implications for businesses of every size.

In her article, “How the New Era of AI Will Impact Consumer-Driven Companies Large and Small in 2026,” Joan Verdon, Contributor for CO, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce publication, explores how these rapidly evolving tools are changing the relationship between businesses and their customers.

One of the biggest changes is the transition from traditional search engine optimization (SEO) toward answer engine optimization (AEO). As consumers increasingly use conversational AI to research products and make purchasing decisions, businesses need to ensure their product information is detailed, accurate, structured, and easy for AI systems to understand.

The opportunity isn’t limited to large retailers. The article notes that nearly 60% of small businesses are already using AI, while businesses that adopt technology aggressively are reporting stronger sales and profit growth. Smaller brands may be able to compete effectively by maintaining clean product data, adopting modern technology, and moving quickly.

At the same time, businesses face an important challenge: How do you become visible to AI-powered shopping agents without losing control of the customer relationship? As more discovery and transactions happen within AI platforms, protecting customer connections, brand differentiation, and valuable behavioral insights will become increasingly important.

For business leaders, marketers, and entrepreneurs, the message is clear: preparing for AI-driven commerce is quickly becoming part of preparing for the future of customer experience.

To learn more, read the full article by Joan Verdon on CO —  by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce at www.uschamber.com/co/good-company/launch-pad/agentic-ai-impact-consumer-business-2026