Retail product education increases casual shopper engagement
Implications - Being able to physically interact with products is one of the top advantages physical retail has over digital, and stores are playing to this strength by creating engaging education sessions and in-store demonstrations to immerse casual shoppers. By taking a casual browser and turning them into a participant, brick and mortar retail spaces are able to provide a product experience for the consumer that can’t be replicated when shopping online.
Workshop Question - How can your brand center itself around unique consumer experiences in the physical world, as opposed to the digital one?
Trend Themes
1. Hands-on Shopping Displays - Interactive displays and testing stations in physical stores are increasing customer engagement and promoting product experience.
2. In-store Education - Physical stores are creating engaging education sessions and in-store demonstrations to immerse casual shoppers and provide a product experience that online shopping cannot.
3. Educational Opportunities in Retail - Retailers are offering educational opportunities where customers can learn a new skill or gain knowledge on a product or service, which builds customer loyalty and differentiation for the business.
Industry Implications
1. Retail Industry - The retail industry is incorporating interactive displays and educational opportunities to increase customer engagement and promote the shopping experience.
2. Food & Beverage Industry - Hands-on classes and demonstrations are creating immersive culinary experiences, changing consumer behavior about food buying and preparation.
3. Technology Industry - Technology products are now being fitted with interactive displays that enable customers to try out features and check general fit.
