Do Son 
Artificial intelligence has seen rapid growth in recent years, significantly enhancing workplace efficiency. However, it has also introduced complex implications. One such example is the recent directive from Shopify, the Canadian multinational e-commerce platform, which now requires employees to demonstrate that their roles cannot be assisted or replaced by AI—otherwise, requests for additional headcount will not be considered.
In an internal memo, Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke emphasized that AI has the potential to dramatically increase productivity. As such, employees are now expected to harness AI tools more effectively in their day-to-day responsibilities. Moreover, the extent to which individuals integrate AI into their workflow will be incorporated into performance evaluations.
Regarding workforce expansion, Lütke stipulated that any proposal to increase staffing must be justified with clear evidence that the tasks in question cannot be handled or supplemented by AI. Without such proof, requests for additional personnel or operational resources will be denied.
Shopify’s current strategic focus lies in cost optimization and workforce streamlining. The company previously reduced its staff by 14% in 2022 and by another 20% in 2023. It now aims to enhance overall output through AI integration, maintaining or even increasing productivity without expanding its workforce.
Beyond internal optimization, Shopify is also extending AI-powered tools to its merchant partners. These include “Sidekick,” a conversational assistant designed to serve as a personal business advisor, and “Shopify Magic,” an automation tool that streamlines and optimizes product listings for better sales performance.
