Powell’s Books faces backlash for AI-assisted merch designs, sparks union concerns

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — Powell’s Books is facing backlash over recent merch designs due to the use of Artificial Intelligence assistance.

The bookstore released a statement on social media writing in part, “We want to acknowledge the concern around the designs of our recent merch. The designs were created by a local artist using Adobe tools, which now include some AI-assisted features.”

Following the release of the new merchandise designs, one person went to Reddit inquiring about one of the designs that featured a wolf on top of a stack of books, writing “Picked up one for my birthday today and noticed some of the books look a little wonky. Anyone know the artist behind this and the cat one?”

ILWU Local 5, the union representing Powell’s workers, posted on Facebook about the merchandise, writing in part, “Powell’s workers have been voicing concerns about the use of AI in these designs for months and company leadership has been unmoved.”

In the recent Powell's statement they also write, “We value the work of human artists and designers, and we remain committed to keeping Powell’s designs rooted in creativity and imagination.”

Powell’s said they are looking for local artists who are interested in helping them make their next designs and are encouraging artists to reach out.

KATU’s Jennifer Singh is following the story and more updates are expected to follow.