AR in retail examples indicates plenty of ways retailers can reap the benefits of technology in business. The retail industry is one of the leading sectors investing in augmented reality. In fact, it is one of the industries using AR in customer service, storage, marketing, logistics, and more to help shoppers make their online shopping fun and interactive.
In today’s highly competitive market, users want to purchase from eCommerce stores that offer augmented reality apps. The trick, however, is that businesses need to understand the implementation of AR tools to stay ahead of the competition. In this AR guide, we reveal the main AR in retail examples, its benefits, and how to implement it in online and offline stores.
Examples Of AR In Retail Stores
According to the key findings from the eCommerce Relevance Report 2022, 93% of customers expect a digital experience equal to or better than the in-store. That means eCommerce stores must focus on providing an immersive experience to their online stores. It is vital to allow users to try products similar to the physical stores. However, that seems impossible if you don’t have the right tools in place.
Below we highlight the AR in retail examples that can help retailers drive sales and boost customer loyalty.
- Virtual try-on is one of the best examples of augmented reality in the retail industry. Many brands are integrating AR technology to let customers try products from anywhere without physically visiting the shop. Some top retailers offering AR to shoppers include eyewear retailer Warby Parker, cosmetic company Sephora, and jewelry firm Diamond Hedge.
- Another best example of using an AR tool is offering additional and valuable information to customers. For instance, AR solutions help the buyer view the product in a 3D environment. The additional information about the product size, style, color, look, and fit available with augmented reality help users make an informed purchase decision. IKEA and NIKE are two top fashion brands enabling users to view products in the 3D environment.
How To Implement AR Apps In The In-store?
As customers turn to their devices to shop for products, they expect more from the shopping experience. There are two ways to incorporate augmented reality in retail — in-store and eCommerce. The former offers a fully immersive customer experience that allows you to interact with products in the brick-and-mortar store. In eCommerce stores, augmented reality can help shoppers try products before buying in the virtual world. Here are a few simple steps to implement a special AR or augmented reality in retail stores.
Determine The Purpose & Goals
Before you invest in any kind of AR, it’s vital to understand the purpose and goals for its use. For instance, if you’re planning to use AR in marketing, consider leveraging the benefits of augmented reality filters. Conversely, if you want to streamline the customer buying journey, offer customers a new virtual try-on tool.
Identify Appropriate AR Technology
Different types of augmented reality technologies are available in the market, including but not limited to marker-based AR, markerless AR, and location-based AR. If you’re perplexed about which AR tech will suit your business, consider SelfStylo virtual makeup try-on tool. It is a web AR tool that integrates directly with your website to let users try the entire brand’s products using their smartphones.
Integrate AR To Your Business
Now that you know which AR tool is suitable for your needs, it’s time to integrate it. If you run an eCommerce store, consider using web-based AR tools or apps. On the other hand, you can focus on using AR displays or mobile devices in your brick-and-mortar store. Virtual fitting rooms and smart mirrors are other best examples of using AR in your business.
Promote The AR Experience
Augmented reality technology offers plenty of other benefits as well. The Instagram AR filters will help you spread brand awareness and tap into a broad customer base. As Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms, many brands are launching AR filters to connect with social media users. In addition, it helps beauty and fashion brands showcase their products and make customer shopping experiences interactive.
Train Employees
Last but not least, train your employees so they can use augmented reality apps. This is exceptionally vital if you want to incorporate augmented reality in retail examples in your offline store. Employees who understand using AR in retail can guide customers and provide personalized services when they are trained to use the technology.
Future Of Augmented Reality In Retail Business
Augmented reality applications are evolving, and brands are using the technology to attract customers. Augmented reality retail is transforming how people explore or shop in the online world. As the technology is gaining momentum, brands feeling reluctant to adopt it will be left behind.
Developing an AR is one of the best ways to help customers try on different products in the virtual world from their homes or office. Customers can use AR apps to try the products or see how a particular item looks on them by pointing their smartphone cameras at their faces.
If you are interested in using this technology, get in touch with SelfStylo AR experts. SelfStylo is an AR application that helps cosmetic brands unlock AR in retail examples and generate better revenue.