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The second decade of the 21st century has just begun, and multiple shopfitting service ideas are already popping up. Some concepts lasted a few years only, but some have stayed relevant and will continue to be relevant for years to come.
These new concepts within the shopfitting industry are more than physical changes related to traditional repaint and renovation — they involve technology, specifically information technology.
These developments in shopfitting include augmented reality (AR), the internet of things (IoT), among others. Over time, the technology used for these developments gets more and more sophisticated, but they also improve store efficiency and customer experience, usually with the help of the customers’ smartphones.
The benefits of shopfitting services do not stop there. These examples can provide stores and retailers with information about their customers. The stores can learn about their customer base’s wants and needs, and as a result, can tailor their products and services to meet the customers’ demands better.
We, at 360 Shopfitters, take note of these changes, concepts, and innovations in the industry and discuss them with our clients so that they can make informed decisions for their own redesigns and bespoke shopfitting. You might be wondering what these innovations are, so here is a list of our favorites:
1. Augmented And Virtual Reality (AR and VR)
Many shop owners and retailers have found that engaging customers to use technology also encourages them to engage with their products and services. Shop owners can do this by adding VR and AR into their stores through bespoke shopfitting. With such advanced technologies, the possibilities are endless.
Architects, house developers, and engineers have been using VR to show their clients samples of concept art for their potential homes. By taking them on a tour of virtual finished property, architects can showcase their various designs and templates to help clients pick what they want. The architects can also show the client what their completed houses would look like despite not leaving the office.
In addition, curtain makers and interior designers can use VR to showcase their products in a virtual showroom. They can create an online version of a house outfitted with their products and designs, which can show customers how they look once they are set up.
AR and VR are not limited to house design and architecture. In fact, car sellers and dealers have used such technology to allow their customers to take their desired cars on a virtual test drive. Fashion boutiques and outlets similarly employed such technologies so that their customers can see the wide range of clothing options they have at a glance and try them on without having to enter a fitting room.
loft and luxury and cafe lounge restaurant
2. The Internet of Things (IoT)
The internet is a beautiful place that connects people. It can also introduce people to businesses to improve customer experience.
By allowing customers to connect their smartphones to devices inside the store, you can provide them with tailored product choices they might like and detailed information regarding those products. You can also find out if the customer has been inside the store for some time without assistance.
This connection is possible by installing sensors all throughout the store that can pick up the customer’s smartphone. By giving them tailored options and improving their overall experience, the customers will feel valued. As a result, it increases their chances of purchasing from the store. This effect is enhanced if they are encouraged to purchase through discounts and other incentives.
3. Pop-up Stores
Pop-up stores are stores that make use of unused industrial spaces. These stores are suddenly built and are often temporary, which gives the impression that they just “popped up” out of nowhere. Pop-up stores are a trend made famous by Nike.
However, Nike did not stop at making pop-up stores. The company also made pop-up booths within the stores, which showcased their latest creations and their best sellers. In addition, potential customers can also view and test the products themselves. Through the combination of brilliant marketing and unique, engaging shopfitting, Nike highlighted their products to the next level and boosted their sales.
4. QR Codes
QR codes have become a mainstay in the business industry, and they are as relevant today as they were years ago. A 2019 report called the “Digital Tipping Point” by consultants from Womble stated that retailers were investing in IT more than ever. Rightfully so, because information technology, which includes QR codes, significantly improves customer experience.
Just by simply scanning the codes on their phones, customers can get more information on products and services, fill up forms and surveys to provide feedback, and even pay their bills.
5. Mobile Point of Sale (POS) Systems
Mobile point of sale systems have significantly improved the payment process. Combined with QR codes, mobile point of sale systems can increase customer convenience and satisfaction.
Instead of having customers queue up, the store staff can simply go on the floor and receive payments from the customers directly. As people nowadays seem to be in a perpetual rush, this system can help increase sales by reducing the waiting time for customers.
It also does away with the need for multiple cash registers being open at one time. Since the staff is also approaching the customers themselves, they can assist and guide the clients in using the piece of technology.
Conclusion
We, at 360 Shopfitters, consistently study trends in the shopfitting industry — from improving and innovating designs to adapting digital trends. We can help you further improve your store not only by physically changing and renovating areas, but also by introducing new technology to get your services to the next level.
According to the Tipping Point report, 50% of sales will be done online by 2029. As such, the necessity for an engaging, attractive, and unique store has increased. 360 Shopfitters can aid you in achieving these qualities and help you provide an amazing experience to your customers.
If you are considering adding new, interactive features to your store through bespoke shopfitting, get in touch with us today!
