The rise of eCommerce has completely transformed the way businesses operate. In the past, businesses had to rely on brick-and-mortar stores to reach customers, but with the advent of eCommerce, businesses can now sell their products online to a global audience.
In recent years, we have seen a shift towards D2C (Direct-to-Consumer) brands. D2C brands cut out the middleman and sell their products directly to customers, allowing them to offer better prices and more personalized experiences.
One of the key ways D2C brands are creating personalized experiences is through virtual shopping experiences. Virtual shopping experiences are a new trend in the eCommerce world that allows customers to shop from the comfort of their own homes. These experiences are becoming increasingly popular as they allow customers to browse, shop, and even try on products virtually.
In this blog post, Let’s take a closer look at some of the retail brands that are choosing the D2C route to create virtual experiences for their customers.
1. Nike
Nike is one of the biggest retail brands in the world, and they have been at the forefront of the virtual shopping experience trend. The brand has launched an app called Nike Fit, which uses augmented reality to scan customers’ feet and recommend the best shoe size for them.
Nike has also created a virtual store experience called Nike Live, which combines physical and digital shopping experiences. Nike Live stores have been launched in several cities, including New York, Los Angeles, and Tokyo.
2. Warby Parker
Warby Parker is a D2C eyewear brand that has become known for its innovative approach to retail. The brand has created a virtual try-on feature on its website that allows customers to see how different frames look on their face.
Warby Parker has also opened several physical stores across the US, but they have combined these with a strong online presence. The brand’s website allows customers to browse and purchase products, and they offer free home try-ons for customers who want to try glasses before buying.
3. Glossier
Glossier is a beauty brand that has taken the eCommerce world by storm. The brand has a strong social media presence and has created a community of loyal customers who are passionate about their products.
Glossier has also created a virtual showroom on its website that allows customers to see products in a 3D environment. The showroom features different rooms that showcase different products, and customers can click on products to see more information and make a purchase.
4. Adidas
Adidas is another major retail brand that has embraced the virtual shopping experience trend. The brand has created an app called Adidas Confirmed, which allows customers to reserve limited-edition sneakers before they are released.
Adidas has also created virtual showrooms in several of its flagship stores. These showrooms use augmented reality to create a more immersive shopping experience for customers.
5. Sephora
Sephora is a beauty retailer that has been at the forefront of the virtual shopping experience trend. The brand has created an app called Sephora Virtual Artist, which uses augmented reality to allow customers to try on makeup virtually.
Sephora has also launched a program called Sephora Virtual Classes, which offers online tutorials and workshops on makeup application and skincare.
The Future of Phygital Commerce
Virtual shopping experiences are just one aspect of the growing trend towards Phygital commerce. Phygital commerce combines physical and digital shopping experiences to create a more immersive experience for customers.
“According to a report by Accenture, 63% of consumers expect personalized experiences from retailers.”
Phygital commerce allows retailers to create personalized experiences by combining physical and digital elements.
The rise of virtual shopping experiences and Phygital commerce is changing the way retailers operate. Retailers that want to stay ahead of the game.
The Benefits of Virtual Shopping Experiences
Virtual shopping experiences offer several benefits for both customers and retailers. For customers, virtual shopping experiences provide a more convenient and personalized shopping experience. Customers can browse and shop from the comfort of their own homes, and they can try on products virtually before making a purchase.
For retailers, virtual shopping experiences provide a way to create a more engaging and immersive shopping experience for customers. Virtual shopping experiences also allow retailers to collect data on customer preferences and behaviour, which can be used to create more personalized marketing campaigns and product recommendations.
Virtual shopping experiences also offer cost savings for retailers. By reducing the need for physical stores and staff, retailers can save on rent, utilities, and staffing costs. This can allow retailers to offer lower prices to customers while still maintaining profitability.
The Future of Phygital Retail
Phygital retail is the future of retail. As technology continues to advance, retailers will be able to create more immersive and engaging shopping experiences for customers. We can expect to see more virtual shopping experiences, augmented reality features, and personalized marketing campaigns in the coming years.
“According to a report by Grand View Research, the global augmented reality market is expected to reach $61.39 billion by 2028.“
This growth is being driven by the increasing demand for immersive and interactive shopping experiences.
The Final Words
Virtual shopping experiences are changing the way retailers operate. By creating more personalized and engaging shopping experiences, retailers can build stronger relationships with their customers and increase customer loyalty.
D2C brands are leading the way in virtual shopping experiences, but we can expect to see more traditional retailers adopting these technologies in the coming years. As the demand for personalized shopping experiences continues to grow, retailers will need to adapt to stay competitive.
The future of retail is Phygital. By combining physical and digital shopping experiences, retailers can create a more immersive and engaging shopping experience for customers.
As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more innovative and creative Phygital retail experiences in the coming years.
Author Bio:
Arjun works as a Digital Marketing Specialist at Maxicus. When he’s not working, he enjoys reading and writing poetry, watching movies, series, and singing. To adapt to this ever-changing world, He wants to read, learn, and experience more things.
