CGI and Kesko Forge Strategic Alliance for Digital Transformation in Retail
On August 20, 2025, CGI, a prominent player in IT and business consulting, unveiled a strategic partnership with Kesko, a major retail services firm based in Finland. This collaboration is set to significantly expedite the digital transformation initiatives at Kesko, focusing on a range of IT services that includes cloud services, end-user assistance, and various integrations.
This strategic alliance aims to elevate Kesko’s digital services, positioning the company as a leader within the competitive retail landscape. According to Arto Hiltunen, the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Kesko, the partnership will leverage the latest technologies to foster business growth and enhance productivity. Kesko’s goal is to transform its operational framework through automation and AI-driven solutions.
CGI’s extensive international experience paired with its local presence has instilled confidence in Kesko regarding the partnership. As noted by Leena-Mari Lähteenmaa, President of CGI Finland, Poland, and the Baltics, leading companies like Kesko are increasingly pursuing collaborative models that reinforce their growth objectives. Under this partnership, shared risks and goals will be at the forefront, guided by joint performance metrics and investments.
CGI has a proven track record of assisting retail and service organizations in optimizing their operations through data-driven strategies. By enhancing customer experiences across various channels, improving supply chain efficiency, and promoting sustainability, CGI aims to help Kesko maximize profitability and streamline its store operations.
Founded in 1976, CGI has grown to become one of the largest independent IT firms globally, boasting a workforce of 93,000 professionals. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services that encompass strategic consultation, systems integration, and business process services, all designed to facilitate digital transformation for its clients.
The CGI fiscal report for 2024 indicated a revenue of CA$14.68 billion. The company’s shares are publicly traded on both the TSX and NYSE, symbolized as GIB.A and GIB respectively. With this new collaboration with Kesko, CGI reinforces its commitment to enhancing the operational landscape of the retail sector through innovative technology solutions.
In summary, this strategic partnership between CGI and Kesko marks a significant step towards advancing digital capabilities in the retail industry, promising to deliver substantial value through effective technology utilization and collaborative growth strategies.