When you think about technology and shopping, what comes to mind?
If your answer is online shopping app, maybe online shopping sites, or e-commerce, then you are right.
Most people instantly think about the online shopping experience in this case. However, tech has also changed the in-store shopping experience.
So, whether you step into a store, check online marketplaces, or shop via a shopping app, the internet will make your buying experience much better.
For the last few years, we have noticed that most people like to buy things online. Blame it on the accessible and affordable internet connection or the e-commerce marketing dominance. However, it seems that roaming around in the mall is back in fashion, but this time it is more tech-savvy.
If you are also curious about the in-store shopping revolution, then keep reading. This write-up will help you know about some of the best ways tech has changed the in-store shopping experience.
Top 5 Ways Tech Has Changed the In-Store Shopping Experience
AI-Powered Try Out
We have all seen the hilarious “what I ordered vs. what I got” videos on social media. There is no doubt they are funny, but for the customers, they are frustrating. This is the reason most people prefer an in-store shopping experience.
However, what if you don’t like to try-out clothes or don’t feel safe in the try-out rooms?
Well, this is where AI-powered try-out features come in. Most of the big brands like Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Zara, etc. have now installed huge try-out screens in their stores. Customer can stand right in front of the mirror and select the article they want to try, and within a second, they can see their image pop up on the screen.
This technology is just like playing with real-life Barbie dress-up game. Some brands have even introduced the try-out feature on their app. You can easily use your phone and any decent internet to try out makeup, hair color, and clothing items of your choice.
For a seamless AI-powered try-on experience, my recommendation is Spectrum Internet. The brand offers free Wi-Fi hotspots, affordable deals, and 24/7 Spectrum customer service, so you can enjoy your online and in-store shopping experience as well.
Self-Checkout
Do you remember the long checkout lines at the store, especially during seasonal sales, discount offers, and clearance sales?
Well, thanks to the self-checkout option, customers no longer have to worry about waiting in the queue. As an introvert, I do not dread the long waiting line; instead, I hate the bill reversal process when I do not like an item but am too shy to say it to the salesperson.
I know I am not the only one, because most of the introverts hate the billing system as well.
However, thanks to self-checkout, you can save yourself from this embarrassment. You can easily skip the article if you don’t like it or if it doesn’t suit your budget.
Buy-Online Pickup In-Store (BOPIS)
Who doesn’t like buying things online?
I mean, it is easy, simple, and convenient, and it helps you compare each article without getting embarrassed. However, even with online shopping options, most people miss the in-store shopping experience. This is where the Buy-online, pickup in-store strategy comes in.
With the help of this strategy, buyers can now enjoy both sides of shopping, i.e., online and in-store. Apart from this, customers who actually want to ensure the fitting and color of the product can easily check each product before making a purchase.
Personalized Articles
Why does an article fit better on the model but look shabby on customers?
Is it a bad design, or is the fit not perfect for them?
This is where a personalized article comes in.
Everyone loves customized, tailor-made and personalized products. However, in this fast fashion world, very few companies offer something personalized while taking care of affordability.
However, thanks to the tech advancement, customers can now request tailor-made items. From picking the right colors to actually getting the fit right, everything can be done within a few minutes by using technology.
On-Demand Products
We have all heard about the harms of fast fashion and the product waste in the retail industry. This is the reason customers are actively looking for brands that are focused on sustainability. Not only that, but brands are also trying to improve their transparency when it comes to sustainable products and items.
Now, companies are working with the “on demand products” model, which means users can now order the product. The company does not have to maintain an inventory; instead, it can focus on manufacturing the product once the order is confirmed. This process helps in streamlining the supply chain while making sure the company does not have to spend money on storage or inventory management. This process also helps in reducing the overall waste while boosting profitability.
Simply put, technology has not just changed the online shopping world but also transformed the in-store shopping experience. The above-mentioned are some of the ways tech is helping people enjoy in-store shopping.
