Augmented reality in retail shopping is redefining the shopping experience. As consumers become increasingly mobile, the demand for better services through digital platforms also increases. In fact, a recent GetApp survey shows that 65% of consumers in the US are comfortable with using AR while shopping.
To remain competitive in the industry, retail businesses must adapt to changing consumer behavior and keep up with emerging trends. To underline the importance of integrating AR technology into your business, here are three of the many ways it affects business growth.
3 Ways Augmented Reality in Retail Shopping Boosts Growth
1. Increased Brand Awareness
Advanced AR features differentiate you from competitors that don’t have such capabilities. They significantly improve consumer perception of your business as an innovative brand. AR also widens your market base as it appeals to various age groups. It attracts boomers who marvel at the “futuristic” technology. It also captures the younger millennials and Gen Zers who grew up with the technology.
2. Enhanced Customer Experience
Over the past few years, we have seen a marked increase in online shopping due to the convenience it offers. However, many consumers are still wary of buying some products online, especially high-value items. This is likely because they are not able to judge the quality of materials and fear that actual products may not look the same as seen online.
Augmented reality addresses this limitation. AR superimposes text, graphics, and videos onto the physical world so shoppers can scrutinize products better. They can use their smartphone camera or an AR app to see what a piece of furniture would look like in their homes or how a particular item of clothing would look when they wear it.
This greatly enhances the shopping experience and improves customer satisfaction.
3. Improved Sales
Last year, Herschel Supply Co introduced a QR scanning system that enabled its customers to view products in their home and compare sizes to existing objects such as chairs and tables. After deploying this and other 3D and AR solutions on its website, Herschel Supply Co reported a 152% increase in revenue per visit, according to GetApp. This is just one of several concrete examples of how AR can increase conversion rates and boost sales.
Augmented reality raises consumer confidence in the quality of products and their features. It also enhances knowledge on product specifications for better-informed purchasing decisions. As it empowers consumers, AR consequently helps drive sales and boost business growth.
Make Shopping Experiences More Immersive
As the world moves forward into the digital age, all industries must strive to become agile and adaptive. For the retail sector, now is the perfect time to accelerate the shift into digital platforms.
To stay a step ahead of the competition, invest in modern technology to provide better services to your customers. Utilize augmented reality and other such technologies to make shopping experiences more immersive and interactive. Doing so will help carve a niche for your brand and ensure continued sustainability in the future.
