Technology enhances the way we connect and communicate with the people in our lives, helps boost our productivity, keeps us better entertained and brings an elevated ease and convenience to everyday living. So it's not surprising that the latest technologies have found their way into retail environments in an attempt to meet shoppers increased expectations for service and low price, as well as to keep up with skyrocketing competition. Read on for this next revolution in retail that puts a new spin on the age-old idea of going out shopping.
Grocery Shopping at the Bus Stop
The corner convenience store has some fierce competition thanks to Tesco Homeplus and their award-winning virtual stores at more than 20 bust stops in South Korea. The concept is shopping 'on the go' and a virtual display allows people to browse and select products while scanning barcodes with their Homeplus App — even arranging for same-day home delivery. Perhaps the key to its success is the ability to bridge the gap between ecommerce and a walk down the produce aisle to make the best selections.
Try it on Virtually
For people who are really on the go and can't spare a few minutes to try something on, virtual window displays come to the rescue. Outside at a Bloomindale's window display in New York, virtual fittings were a big hit. Here's how they work: shoppers simply stand in front of a window, align their eyes to the ovals and voilá, the sunglasses appear. Not a great fit? Not a problem. A quick tap calls up a handful more designer styles and colors. While the idea hasn't exactly made it into mainstream malls, certain retailers such as this shopping center in Queensland Australia are taking advantage of the wonders of virtual reality to make shoppers' dreams come true.
Superpower the Point of Purchase
Long lines are no longer a deterrent to holiday shoppers for big-box retailers like Kmart and Sears. Both of the chains are putting mobile point-of-sale devices and tablets in the hands of store associates to prepare for the holiday rush. Employees are able to check out store customers waiting in line or anywhere in the store with an iPad or iPod device. It's a great way for storeowners to curb lost sales that typically happen when the lines get too long.
Digital signage and point-of-purchase signs are another dynamic way retailers are using technology to keep shoppers occupied while they wait for a sales associate or are standing in line.
These are just a few examples of the way technologies are moving business forward by providing better, faster and easier ways to take shoppers from browse to buy.
