The Future of Shopping: Why Interactive Retail Displays Are Essential

The 90s brought us the digital answering machine, Adobe Photoshop, and Beanie Babies. It also marked the introduction of digital signage, a term from a security guard at a UK shopping center in early 1992—no, seriously! The guard reportedly referred to the wall of security displays as “digital signage” because they were unsure of the proper terminology.

During the 1990s, TV displays were primarily used in sports bars to broadcast games, but between 1990 and 1995, we finally began to see large TVs being utilized as digital signs. Then, between 1995 and 2000, digital signage started appearing in theaters, airports, and high-tech malls, and poster space was replaced with video space.

Of course, it goes without saying that things have come a long way since then, mainly because what was once completely revolutionary when the idea was first introduced is now the norm in places like our favorite restaurants and local shopping malls.

There was a period when interactive retail displays defied convention by using straightforward video loops or motion sensors to trigger voice call-to-actions. Many of the interactive retail displays of today go even further with their unique visions to present and demonstrate products, building on the foundation of these elements.

They continue to improve. In fact, now many are interactive, and these interactive retail displays are changing how businesses market their products and bringing freshness to merchandising.

Interactive retail displays are transforming shopping by making stores more engaging and convenient. Touchscreen kiosks, AR mirrors, and smart shelves help customers explore products while also improving store operations. These digital setups grab attention, enhance the shopping experience, and give retailers useful insights to boost sales.

As technology advances, displays in stores are becoming smarter and more personalized. Digital signage and AI allow businesses to adapt to customer needs in real time, making shopping more interactive and efficient. Retailers using these innovations will attract more customers and build lasting brand loyalty.

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Types of Interactive Retail Displays

Technology allows for data collection, and its inclusion of engaging elements thrills customers and promotes exploration.

There are numerous uses for interactive displays in retail. They can increase brand loyalty and profoundly educate shoppers, building a solid connection that keeps shoppers coming back for more. Let’s dive deeper into this!

Here are some specific uses for interactive digital signs in retail:

1. Touchscreen Kiosks and Panels

Kiosks have transformed our daily lives for decades. We use them to check bags for that Hawaiian Christmas trip we’ve been planning for months, pay for parking on a night out, and order that delicious Italian sub we’ve been craving. It’s easy to overlook that touch screens weren’t always mainstream.

McDonald’s utilizes retail display stands as self-service kiosks, allowing customers to place orders quickly and customize meals with ease. These digital kiosks also serve as advertising platforms, showcasing limited-time specials, meal deals, and new menu items to encourage upselling.

To give customers a hands-on experience, some businesses have augmented retail display stands with touch screens due to the technology’s widespread use and well-established status. Usages frequently involve continuous aisle shopping, finding out more product details, or personalizing goods.

Sam’s Club is a fantastic example of this. Their sample kiosk offers everything from tasty protein bars and vitamin gummies to air fresheners and laundry detergent pods. Simply scan your membership card, enter your email, watch a brief video, and presto! You now have a free sample.

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2. Augmented Reality (AR) Mirrors

Augmented Reality (AR) mirrors are changing how interactive retail displays work and immersing visitors in a unique shopping experience.

These high-tech mirrors seamlessly blend the real and digital worlds, giving the shoppers an idea of how their products would look if purchased.

Customers can walk into a store and virtually try on clothing, accessories, and even makeup without physically putting them on. This way, AR mirrors enable customers to visualize their products and see how they will look at them in real-time.

What it offers:

• Enhanced shopping experience
• Better decision-making processes, such as sizing and style
• Ability to make customizations and proper product information
• An engaging and personalized customer interaction
• Brands using AR mirrors include:

• L’Oréal: Industry leader in skin and hair products
• H&M: Leading the clothing industry
• Burberry: A strong competitor in the fashion industry
• Adidas: Leader in the footwear industry

3. Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences

Virtual Reality (VR) experiences in interactive retail displays give the business an edge that focuses on customer experience. For starters, it captivates shoppers and makes them want to take a closer look.

It gives customers a realistic sense of the product’s look and feel. VR-equipped interactive displays captivate the consumers and elevate the overall retail experience.

VR’s ability to virtually transport shoppers to another dimension helps them explore products and environments in unprecedented ways. Interactive retail displays that leverage VR technology were valued at USD 3.25 billion in 2022, with an expected CAGR of 28% from 2023 to 2030.

What it offers:

• Provides shoppers with a unique shopping experience
• Helps them virtually interact and connect with the products
• Allows room for a better and more informed purchase decision
• Enhances customer engagement

VR applications in the retail industry

• Take a test drive and see if your dream car makes you feel special
• Select furniture or wall decor with the virtual representation of your home settings
• Let VR shopping assistants give you a real-time view of your selected products

4. Smart Shelves and RFID Technology

Smart shelves equipped with radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags bring a new level of intelligence to interactive retail displays. These shelves have static surfaces, with their USP or dynamic feature being their real-time ability to track inventory levels. By integrating RFID in interactive retail displays, you can elevate the shopping experience as customers get instant access to product information, availability, and pricing.

RFID technology in interactive displays helps retailers to:

• Monitor product movements on their shelves
• Plan and enable stock optimization
• Prevent retail theft
• Streamline restocking process

Smart shelves in interactive displays help shoppers to:

• Get complete product information without any human intervention
• Stay interested and piqued during the entire shopping experience
• Enjoy easy and meaningful product interactions
• Retrieve product insights, such as origins and reviews

5. Interactive Product Demonstrations

Interactive product demonstrations are breaking the way retail displays work! They are adding colors to the traditional shopping experience.

For example: Instead of having static displays of a car launch advertisement, interactive product demonstrations engage customers directly with the showcased car. This allows shoppers to explore and experience products hands-on and dynamically.

These demonstrations offer a deeper insight into the product’s features, functionalities, benefits, and use cases, allowing customers to make more informed decisions.

See FTx Digital Signage in action!

High Tech Trends

The Future of Shopping: Why Interactive Retail Displays Are Essential

Interactive retail displays are revolutionizing the shopping experience. From smart technology in retail displays to immersive interactive store displays, these innovations are reshaping how customers engage with brands. Let’s explore the high-tech trends, implementation tips, and why interactive retail design outperforms static displays.

High-Tech Trends Shaping Interactive Retail

1. Holography

Holography creates 3D images that captivate shoppers. Imagine a liquor store showcasing a rotating hologram of a premium whiskey bottle, highlighting its unique features.

For example, a tobacco store could display a 3D hologram of a new cigar line, zooming in on its craftsmanship. This interactive retail technology boosts engagement, increases dwell time, and enhances product understanding, leading to higher conversions.

2. OLED Displays

Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screens offer vibrant colors and flexibility, perfect for interactive retail store displays.

For example, a convenience store could use OLED displays to showcase real-time promotions or highlight new products, or a salon shop might leverage them for interactive tutorials on hairstyles or skincare routines. These smart retail displays adapt to store layouts and update content seamlessly, creating personalized shopping experiences.

3. Projection Mapping

Projection mapping turns walls, floors, and products into dynamic storytelling platforms. A grocery store could project recipes onto walls, showing how to use featured products, or a pet store might transform its floor into a playful pathway leading to pet food or toys. Such interactive product displays grab attention and guide customers strategically.

4. Interactive Floor Tiles

Interactive floor tiles light up or trigger sounds when stepped on, creating playful pathways. A nightclub or bar could use this technology to create a dance floor that reacts to movement, enhancing the party atmosphere. It’s a fun way to enhance navigation and brand perception.

5. Smart Mirrors

Smart mirrors use AR for virtual try-ons, letting customers experiment with outfits or makeup.

For example, a salon shop could offer virtual makeovers, allowing clients to test different hairstyles or colors. This interactive retail technology reduces the need for physical inventory and increases purchase confidence, making shopping more personal and efficient.

6. Digital Ceilings

Digital ceilings turn overhead spaces into immersive displays. This smart technology in retail displays adds a wow factor and emotional connection.

7. Product Customization: One-of-a-Kind Experiences

In-store customization, like 3D printing or embroidery, lets shoppers create unique products.

For example, a clothing store could offer personalized embroidery on jackets or caps, or a liquor store might allow customers to design custom labels for wine bottles. This interactive retail design drives engagement generates social media buzz, and commands premium prices.

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Tips for Implementing Interactive Displays in Retail

Interactive retail displays can transform your store, but planning is key. Here’s how to get started:

1. Conduct a Store Audit and Needs Assessment

Evaluate your store layout and identify areas where interactive retail technology can enhance customer engagement.

For example, a convenience store might focus on checkout areas, while a salon shop could prioritize waiting areas.

2. Understand Customer Demographics

Tailor your interactive store displays to match the preferences and behaviors of your target audience.

A nightclub might focus on immersive experiences, while a grocery store could prioritize educational displays.

3. Choose the Right Technology for Your Brand

Select interactive retail displays that align with your brand identity and goals, whether it’s smart mirrors or projection mapping.

4. Incorporate Displays into Store Layouts

Integrate interactive retail design seamlessly into your store to create a cohesive and engaging shopping journey.

For example, a liquor store could use projection mapping to highlight premium products.

5. Measure and Analyze Success

Track metrics like dwell time, sales, and customer feedback to evaluate the impact of your interactive initiatives.

Use FTx BI Analytics to gain insights and optimize your displays.

Interactive Retail Displays vs Static: Which Works Best?

Interactive retail displays are transforming the shopping experience, but how do they compare to static displays? Here’s why interactive retail technology is taking the lead:

1. Capturing Attention

Interactive store displays grab attention instantly. Holograms, smart mirrors, and projection mapping create a “wow” factor that static displays can’t match.

2. Engaging with Customers

Interactive retail design encourages customers to interact with products. Virtual try-ons and customization options make shopping more personal and engaging.

3. Enhancing In-Store Experience

From interactive floor tiles to digital ceilings, smart retail displays create immersive environments that static displays can’t replicate.

4. Educating Shoppers

Interactive product displays provide detailed information, helping customers make informed decisions. OLED screens and smart mirrors showcase features effectively.

Interactive retail displays not only outperform static ones but also create memorable experiences that drive sales and loyalty.

By embracing interactive retail technology, brands can stay ahead in the competitive retail landscape. Whether it’s smart technology in retail displays or immersive interactive shopping displays, the future of shopping is here—and it’s interactive!

Reasons Why Interactive Displays Are Essential for Your Store’s Success

Interactive displays are essential for store success as they offer a dynamic shopping experience, insight into customer preferences, improved engagement, and influence customer behavior. Here’s how to make a difference:

1. Personalized Shopping Experience

A personalized shopping experience leverages customer data and product preferences to recommend tailor-made product suggestions. It bridges the gap between reality and virtual platforms and brings a hands-on feel to the shopping experience. The two factors that play an active role in personalized shopping experiences are:

• Data-Driven Recommendations

This includes customer information, purchase history, and preferences directly affecting tailor-made product suggestions.

• Virtual Try-Ons and Fittings for Personalized Shopping

Virtual try-ons and fittings leverage the latest technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), to allow shoppers to see how their preferred product will look on them before deciding.

Tip

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2. Improved Store Operations

Efficient store operations are essential for a seamless and successful retail environment. Improved store operation contributes to a more secure and organized retail experience and reduces the risks associated with cash handling. Two key components contributing to this are:

• Inventory Management

Advanced technologies, such as RFID and real-time tracking systems, can provide accurate inventory information, improving overall efficiency.

• Efficient Checkout and Payment

Modernized checkout processes, such as self-service kiosks and contactless payments, accelerate the transaction process. Retailers can improve customer satisfaction and streamline operations by reducing wait times and enhancing payment operations.

3. Data Collection and Analytics

Data collection and analytics can help enhance decision-making processes and shape business strategies. Two crucial factors affecting data analytics are:

• Gathering Customer Insights

Retailers use retail software applications to gather insights into customer preferences, shopping behavior, and purchasing patterns. This information helps optimize inventory levels, design marketing plans, and provide exceptional shopping experience.

• Measuring ROI (Return on Investment)

ROI is a crucial component of the data-driven decision-making process. It allows retailers to understand the effects of their operational efforts and maximize their impact on investments.

4. The Power of Customer Engagement

Customer engagement attracts customers and drives brand loyalty and business success. Two contributing factors to success. Two contributing factors are:

• Visual Appeal

Various activities come under visual appeal, such as interactive retail displays, store layout designs, product placements, and a welcoming atmosphere. Visual appeal is essential to make or break a solid first impression.

• Interactive Product Discovery

This approach can allow shoppers to touch, feel, and experience products before purchasing them.

Measuring Success and ROI of Interactive Retail Displays

• Key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Collecting and analyzing customer feedback
• Calculating the return on investment (ROI)
• Continuous improvement and optimization

Tip

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Shoot for the Moon with Interactive Retail Displays

In today’s fast-paced retail environment, companies are pushed to think creatively to capture their customers’ attention. To do this, they use various state-of-the-art tools and innovative techniques—from high-tech gadgets and interactive displays to powerful storytelling—that ensure shoppers have an unforgettable experience every time.

GE Lighting’s LED+ program, which uses an interactive retail display to highlight the many powers of its specialty bulbs at hardware stores, is a wonderful example of this.

The company released a case of smart LED bulbs mounted on shelving. Customers could operate the smart bulbs using a panel of buttons and observe how they behaved in various settings. GE Lighting has a selection of bulbs for any event, from impromptu dance parties to those summer lightning storms.

Customers can press buttons on the display to generate various scenarios.

In one demonstration, turning the knobs while holding them down causes a lamp with several mood-setting color selections to play music. In another, a lightbulb is shown changing from daytime to nighttime lighting. The light bulb turns on after the lightbox darkens to emphasize the battery backup feature.

When investing in an effective display program, think of innovative ways to present your products that will help educate customers on their features and functionalities. By creating powerful content alongside captivating visual displays, you can leave an unforgettable impression on shoppers while opening whole new worlds of product understanding.

Experience the Future of Interactive Displays

Retail displays are still developing, and cutting-edge technology is coming for businesses that want to challenge the status quo.

Even though augmented reality is nothing new, integrating technology into retail displays is still in its early stages. However, in the upcoming years, we’ll probably witness increased implementation. A future generation of shoppers won’t have any trouble pulling out their mobile devices for the in-store technology thanks to well-known AR apps like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok.

Major ecommerce sites use augmented reality to help customers envision products or décor in their online stores. That said, it should not be a shock when they start appearing in stores as valuable ways to highlight product features, advertise a promotion, or carry out other limitless opportunities. In addition, as businesses use the service to customize digital messaging and obtain real-time customer data, camera analytics will become more prevalent on shelves and displays.

Imagine a store display that adapts its branding and visuals based on the shopper’s demographics who approach it using artificial intelligence (AI). With video analytics, brands can determine what merchandise is attracting attention, what messaging is effective for various age groups, and much more. The information can assist brands in customizing other facets of their marketing, such as traditional advertising and relationships with brand ambassadors. In short, businesses wishing to study customer behavior can benefit from various data that in-store customers can contribute.

All retail displays, generally, are crucial parts of a successful marketing plan since they draw attention to a brand’s goods and cultivate a following of devoted customers. Interactive elements that both engage and inform customers can also help a company stand out from the crowd. Technology will be heavily involved in creating interactive retail displays of the future, which will offer a customized and informative experience.

Conclusion

There are a ton of advantages to using digital signage. It raises awareness of slow-moving goods before they expire. Rotating digital displays can draw buyers’ attention. Additionally, dynamic content can cause your profits to soar. Thanks to FTx Digital Signage, you won’t ever have to worry about missing out on enjoying these benefits. With the help of our digital signage solution, you can design captivating displays that entice and educate customers to shop. Additionally, you can set up and manage your in-store advertising in advance or in real-time.

Curious to learn more about what we offer? Call us today to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists, who will guide you through a demo!