Brands mimic online shopping in storefronts with smart product integration
Implications - As consumers continue to receive constant stimulation from smartphones and tablets, the in-person experience is becoming less desired in retail with more brands implementing tech into the storefront shopping experience than ever. The no-pressure solutions make retail more approachable for consumers who wish to shop uninterrupted, yet still demand a personalized experience. The approach makes a connection to the simplicity associated with online shopping, but offers the instant gratification of receiving a product immediately after purchase.
Trend Themes
1. In-store Techification - As consumers receive constant stimulation from smartphones and tablets, retailers are implementing tech through the storefront shopping experience with no-pressure solutions making retail more approachable for consumers who wish to shop uninterrupted.
2. Projected Design Previews - Augmented reality technology is being used to project real-time upholstery and furniture onto showroom items helping consumers select items that better fit their tastes before making a purchase.
3. E-ink Retail Tags - Digital pricing displays are being used in place of paper tags to show an item's description, cost, item number and barcode, saving paper and time.
Industry Implications
1. Retail Technology - Retailers with an online presence are increasingly integrating technology into physical stores, including the use of digital retail showrooms and in-store tech to mimic online shopping.
2. Personalized Marketing - Beacons and apps able to personalize marketing to potential customers that are equipped with a VIP key are becoming more common in the retail industry.
3. Tech Integration - Industry professionals include Dutch and American designers and technology companies that incorporate hardware and software development, infrastructure management, cloud services, artificial intelligence and machine learning in their areas of expertise.
