Virtual innovation labs let consumers test and design products remotely
Trend - Pre-pandemic, brands in a range of industries experimented with innovation labs where they could display and test their most innovative products and ideas with consumers. Now, they're doing the same but virtually--as retailers remain restricted with how they curate in-store experiences.
Insight - Consumers have had to turn to the online sphere more than ever before in the past year, and brands have quickly become just as innovative virtually as they have been in their in-store experiences in the past. To be engaged online, consumers expect that brands offer them everything from cost accessibility to convenience and customization.
Insight - Consumers have had to turn to the online sphere more than ever before in the past year, and brands have quickly become just as innovative virtually as they have been in their in-store experiences in the past. To be engaged online, consumers expect that brands offer them everything from cost accessibility to convenience and customization.
Workshop Question - How could your brand create distinct virtual experiences for customers?
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Innovation Labs - Pre-pandemic, brands in a range of industries experimented with innovation labs, now, they're doing the same but virtually, offering consumers cost accessibility, convenience, and customization.
2. Virtual Sampling Experiences - As cosmetic sampling experiences, in-store try-ons and launch events are changing, building out interactive universes like Skin School x Clinique Laboratories offer brands unique marketing opportunities without ever having to leave the consumer's home.
3. Immersive Digital Spaces - With industries like fashion hit hard by social distancing guidelines, creating innovative and immersive digital solutions like LKM Lab's virtual runway environments provide unique experiences that are exclusive to virtual shows.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - With retailers restricted in their ability to curate in-store experiences, digital solutions like virtual labs and necklace layering labs offer consumers unique experiences without having to leave the home.
2. Beauty - Virtual beauty labs, like Skin School x Clinique Laboratories, provide consumers with a unique way to try out the latest beauty products from the comfort of their couch.
3. Education - Home cooking platforms such as YesChef and virtual innovation labs provide opportunities to learn from world-renowned chefs, take part in live chats and discover new cultural cuisines.
