TLDR: Powell’s Books is facing criticism regarding its merchandise, which customers and a union representing its workers claim was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence. The bookstore has issued a statement clarifying that the designs were made by a local artist using Adobe tools with AI-assisted features and is seeking new local artists for future apparel.
Portland’s iconic independent bookstore, Powell’s Books, has found itself at the center of a controversy following customer and union backlash over its use of AI-assisted designs for merchandise. The issue came to light after shoppers began noticing that images on some of the store’s gift shop apparel appeared to be generated with artificial intelligence, sparking a wave of criticism online.
The merchandise in question has been available for sale at the downtown store’s gift shop. The online outcry quickly gained traction, drawing attention to the use of AI in creative processes within the retail sector.
Adding to the pressure, ILWU Local 5, the union representing many of Powell’s workers, publicly addressed the situation. The union posted on Facebook, indicating that employees at the bookstore had been voicing concerns about the use of AI artwork for several months prior to the public backlash. This suggests an internal awareness of the issue before it became a widespread public discussion.
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In response to the growing criticism, Powell’s Books released a statement on Saturday, September 6, 2025, aiming to clarify the situation. The bookstore stated, “The designs were created by a local artist using Adobe tools which now includes some AI assisted features.” Furthermore, Powell’s Books expressed its commitment to future collaborations with human artists, adding, “We’re already working on new apparel for the holidays and spring, and we would love to invite local artists who are interested in helping us create new designs.” This statement acknowledges the use of AI-assisted features while also emphasizing the involvement of a local artist and a desire to engage the local artistic community for upcoming collections.
