During the SofTIS Summer Camp 2025, held in Varna, Bulgaria, between 13–15 June, our association TEAM4Excellence took centre stage once again — this time through the contribution of our president, Ovidiu Acomi, who presented the latest achievements of the INAIR (AI4Retail) project.

In front of an international audience of software developers, researchers, and innovation leaders, Mr. Acomi highlighted how the INAIR project is contributing to bridging the AI skills gap in the European retail sector, especially for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

Tackling the AI Skills Gap in Retail

INAIR is a forward-thinking Erasmus+ project with a clear mission: to equip MSMEs in retail with the competences needed to thrive in the AI-driven digital economy. The project directly addresses the gap in digital readiness by:

• Identifying AI skill needs and gaps in Cyprus, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Romania;
• Developing and testing a hybrid AI skills development programme for at least 150 professionals by 2026;
• Creating teaching and training resources for vocational education and training (VET) providers.

Key Results Presented at SofTIS

🔹 AI Skill Needs and Gaps in Retail: A transnational research report identifying key AI-related competences required in the retail sector, including the results of stakeholder workshops and desk research across five countries.

🔹 AI Core Curriculum for MSMEs in Retail: A comprehensive training curriculum supporting retail businesses in adopting AI for sustainability, operational efficiency, and competitiveness.

🔹 Assessment Framework & AI Skills Tool: A methodological guide and an online assessment tool designed to personalise learning paths based on learners’ roles, existing skills, and business needs.

🔹 Map of Web-based AI Tools: A curated list of 25 AI tools evaluated for ethical trustworthiness and usability by retail MSMEs.

🔹 Coming Soon – OER E-Learning Platform: Interactive, open-access resources for practical AI learning tailored to the retail sector.

These resources are already publicly available and are intended to support not only retailers, but also VET providers and trainers across Europe in integrating AI competences into their educational offerings.

The presentation sparked insightful discussions on how AI can contribute to a greener, more competitive retail industry and how educators, policymakers, and business owners can collaborate to ensure that no enterprise is left behind in the digital transformation.

By showcasing the INAIR project at SofTIS, TEAM4Excellence reinforces its commitment to empowering professionals through education, innovation, and international collaboration.

Location: Varna, Bulgaria
Date: 13.06.2025-15.06.2025