Algolia Report: AI Search is Critical in B2B Ecommerce Strategy But Adoption Varies

Algolia data examines levels of adoption and use of AI, future trends, and challenges within the sector for global B2B ecommerce decision-makers

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Algolia, the world's only end-to-end AI Search and Discovery platform, today unveiled its annual B2B Ecommerce Site Search Trends Report, powered by insights from leading data analytics and advisory firm Escalent.

According to Escalent’s research, AI's ability to analyze vast amounts of data and deliver insights that shape customer experiences is unparalleled. With longer sales cycles, special terms, and larger orders, B2B companies recognize the importance that AI-powered search and discovery plays in driving growth and enhancing the customer journey.

Michelle Adams, President of Field Operations, Algolia, remarked: “Amid economic uncertainties, the B2B ecommerce sector is harnessing the power of AI search and discovery to elevate customer experience and drive business growth. Our findings show that 67% of respondents are not only excited about AI technology, but also believe we’ve passed the hype stage. AI search has now become a foundational requirement for any B2B ecommerce strategy.”

Key findings from the 2025 B2B Ecommerce Site Search Trends Report include:

Focus shifts from sales growth to customer-centric experiences

• In response to a dynamic business landscape, respondents are increasingly seeking technology solutions that meet rising customer expectations (37%), support business growth and scalability (36%), and enhance the online customer experience (34%).
• Site search & discovery has emerged as the leading use case for search and discovery applications, up 7% year-over-year (44% vs. 37%). The research reveals a shift among B2B ecommerce AI search users, who are prioritizing site search and discovery capabilities over traditional ecommerce capabilities.

B2Bs eCommerce leaders recognize AI’s importance, despite varied levels of adoption

• 67% of B2B ecommerce companies are already using AI and machine learning to drive growth.
• 9 out of 10 recognize AI’s critical role in their long-term strategy. However, only 41% are fully AI operational.
• While current and projected adoption rates remain modest, the opportunity for growth and deeper integration is clear—offering significant potential to optimize B2B ecommerce processes.

AI search: critical to boosting ecommerce experience

• For 84% of interviewees, AI has evolved from a nice-to-have to a vital tool.
• As for future investment, two-thirds (66%) of respondents plan to increase AI spend within the next one to two years.

Erin Smith, vice president, global head of technology operations at Escalent, noted: “The latest B2B Ecommerce Site Search Trends Report highlights a shift towards AI technology. Respondents are seeking solutions that address specific business challenges and deliver tangible results, reflecting a more strategic and intentional approach to AI implementation.”

To see how Algolia’s AI Search can help B2B ecommerce organizations meet top business objectives, try Algolia AI Search free here or request a demo here. Download a free copy of the 2025 B2B Ecommerce Site Search Trends Report.

Report Methodology

Algolia partnered with Escalent to conduct an extensive survey of over 300 current users of B2B ecommerce search and discovery platforms in North America and Europe, Middle East, and Asia (EMEA) in 2024. Interviewees were almost equally split between occupying business (49%) and technical (51%) roles within their organizations. Everyone we spoke to was in a director role or higher.

About Algolia

Algolia is a leading provider of AI search solutions, serving over 18,000 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