‘Holographics are vital in the digitally focused retail world of tomorrow’
Holographic technology – once the preserve of science fiction – is set to become commonplace in retail.
In the 2002 sci-fi film Minority Report, the main character, played by Tom Cruise, walks through a futuristic mall populated with hologram adverts and hologram shop staff.
And now that vision is set to become reality.
Last year, Harrods caused a stir among London shoppers when it showcased a stunning window display using ultrarealistic rotating holograms to promote luxury watch brands including Chopard, Hublot and Jaeger-lecoultre.
Large-scale holographic images of the watches were projected in the space usually reserved for more traditional shopfront product arrangements.
The holograms were created by London tech firm Hypervsn, whose chief executive, Kiryl Chykeyuk, told the Sunday Post the use of holograms in retail is set to expand massively – including hologram shop assistants.
He said: “Modern-day retail stores should no longer be transaction centres but hubs for customer engagement. In the face of increased competition from online channels, the shop floor is made up of physical touch-point opportunities that can enhance the shopping experience and increase brand loyalty, even before a consumer enters the store.
“For example, holographic window displays, which can be tailored to seasonal trends, are a perfect opportunity to grab the attention of passers-by.
“Once through the doors, retailers can deploy a holographic human to welcome visitors into the store and even provide them with information to enhance their shopping experience. They can then present goods in highquality 3D displays, or even facilitate virtual try-ons for the latest fashion items.
“Holographic deployments are, therefore, a musthave in the digitally focused retail world of tomorrow.”