In today’s world, it is essential for retailers to offer their customers a unique shopping experience in order to remain competitive. Especially in the textile industry, where customers want to see, feel and try products before they buy, it is important to find innovative solutions to make this experience possible online.
This is exactly where Hemsing textil mit stil comes in. The Bocholt-based retailer is breaking new ground and combining local retail with the virtual world to create a seamless sales experience. By integrating augmented reality into Hemsing’s online store, customers can try out selected rugs from the range in their own living room and get a realistic picture of the look and feel and size of the products. The AR carpets start directly in the smartphone’s web browser, so that no media disruption is necessary, e.g. by downloading a special AR app.
New sales opportunities through augmented reality
By using augmented reality, the customer can try out the carpet they prefer in the store in advance at the place of use (e.g. their own living room) and be supported in their purchase decision through a better understanding of the look and feel and the size of the carpet. Borrowing the “real” product to try it out becomes obsolete.
The same applies to the pure online shopping experience. By using innovative AR technology, Hemsing sets itself apart from the competition and offers its website visitors added value that is not only memorable, but also increases the conversion rate and interest in Hemsing’s product portfolio.
This gives Hemsing new opportunities in sales and improves customer service both in its own online store and at the point of sale.
What is augmented reality and how does it work?
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that makes it possible to integrate digital content into the real world. Unlike virtual reality (VR), where the user is immersed in a completely artificial environment, AR adds digital elements to the real world. This is usually done by using cameras and sensors on mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets.
By integrating augmented reality technology into Hemsing’s online store, customers can now view the selected carpets in their real environment, e.g. their living room. All the customer needs is a mobile device with a camera and internet access to use the AR function. By scanning a QR code on the retailer’s website, the AR web application is opened and the customer can place and view the selected carpet in their environment.
Production of the 3D data (carpets) and costs incurred
The 3D data required to display the carpets in AR can be scanned by Hemsing’s team using a LiDAR supported iPhone or iPad and then integrated into the backend of the website. Our interface to the store system makes it easy to upload the 3D data and the operation is based on learned processes, such as the integration of a product image. The only difference is that this is not a photo, but a 3D model. By being able to scan and upload the products independently, Hemsing saves costs that would otherwise be required for 3D modeling and is completely flexible in its use of the technology.
Advantages of AR for the retail sector
The integration of augmented reality into Hemsing Textil’s online store offers a number of benefits for retailers. Some of the most important benefits are listed below:
Better product presentation:
AR allows customers to view the products in a real environment, which gives a much more realistic picture of the look and feel of the products than static images on a website. Customers can place the rug directly in their living room or bedroom and see how it harmonizes with other furniture and accessories. This helps customers to better visualize how the product would look in their home, making the purchase decision easier.
Personalizing the shopping experience:
AR enables retailers to personalize the shopping experience for their customers. Customers can view selected products in their own environment, making the shopping experience much more personal and engaging. Retailers can also make personalized recommendations based on their customers’ preferences and tastes.
Increasing customer engagement:
AR also offers retailers the opportunity to increase customer engagement. Customers can view and interact with products from different angles, making the shopping experience more interactive and engaging. Retailers can also incorporate special AR features such as 360-degree visualizations or virtual try-ons to further increase customer engagement.
Connecting online and offline sales channels:
The integration of AR into the online store enables retailers to connect the online and offline sales channels. Customers can view and select products online, but also buy them offline in-store. AR can also help to entice the customer into the store by giving them a preview of the products before they buy them in-store.
How AR technology can support the retail industry
The integration of AR technology into retailers’ online and offline sales channels supports the shopping experience and provides a bridge between local retail and the online world. AR offers a number of benefits for retailers, including better product presentation, personalization of the shopping experience, increasing conversion rates, increasing customer engagement and connecting online and offline sales channels.
As augmented reality agency Paus AR Studio, we are your partner when it comes to integrating AR technology into your marketing strategies and reaping the benefits. If you would like to find out more about how AR technology can help your company, please contact us for a no-obligation initial consultation.
