Retail Merchandiser Volume 64, Issue 2 | Page 20

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Ladies and gentlemen , the hype is real - the retail landscape is evolving . After more than two decades of e-commerce setting the stage as a must-have channel side by side with brick-and-mortar shopping , the way we understand and implement online stores is about to change again , and that is through immersive commerce .

Today ’ s consumers demand an endto-end shopping experience that will give them the convenience of shopping on their mobile devices with the physical engagement and feel of a physical store , and more . Yet classic e-commerce is limited , and achieving this seamless brand journey is extremely challenging for most brands to accomplish . But now , with the onset of immersive commerce , these two worlds - digital and physical , can finally meet .
If you ’ ve ever wondered what immersive commerce really is , here ’ s a breakdown of what it ’ s all about and why it should be on your brand ’ s bucket list for 2024 .
What is immersive commerce ?
Immersive commerce utilizes cross-device virtual reality ( VR ) and other innovative technologies to create 3D interactive and engaging online shopping experiences , elevating traditional e-commerce into a more dynamic and interactive journey .
With immersive commerce , customers interact with brands on a much deeper and more intuitive level , exploring visually stunning brand environments , dedicatedly designed to reflect the brand ’ s identity , messaging , and aesthetics . While similar to a customer strolling through a physical shop , the virtual journey can be much more vivid and visceral . Since we are in the digital world , brands can collect realtime insights , constantly optimizing the experience , eventually leading to much higher conversion and loyalty . Immersive commerce can offer many other features you couldn ’ t do before while shopping online , such as virtually trying on products , product configuration , and richer 3D user interface ( UI ) environments , leading to more engaging and informed purchase decisions .
With immersive commerce , customers can walk into an online store like a physical one , explore the shelves , different products , and even talk to AI assistants like real humans . Therefore , immersive commerce is a game-changer for customers shopping and interacting with retail brands . Customers
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