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STORE + DIRECT RETAILERS
Retailers that have both a store and
direct business benefit from leveraging the entire 3D Virtual Fit
system, from kiosk to back end servers. At the kiosk customers get
to enjoy the scanning process and then have their 3D Virtual Fit ID
numbers uploaded to to the FormaLogix data center. Once on the data
center these customers can then view their feet and perform Virtual
Fits online from either FormaLogix's 3DFoot web site or from the
retailer's own web site where ultimately they will be able to buy
shoes. If the retailer has a catalog, operators at the fulfillment
center can directly access customer 3D Virtual Fit IDs via
FormaLogix's open API's (application program interfaces), performing
Virtual Fits to confirm the correct size.
The following represents some of
the key advantages that retailers can expect when using the
FormaLogix 3D Virtual Fit System for both store and direct business:
Cross Channel Synergy
One of the most powerful reasons for
adopting the 3D Virtual Fit system is how it helps bring synergy
across a company's multiple sales channels. Rather than
cannibalizing one channel in favor of another, the 3D Virtual Fit
system actually helps each channel drive traffic to the other. For example,
in the illustration below, the 3D Virtual Fit kiosks help push
traffic to the web and catalogs (which happen to be many companies
highest margin and fastest growing channels) by giving customers the
comfort and confidence that whatever they buy will fit. In return, the web and catalogs help drive traffic
back to the store for those people that are looking for a Virtual
Fit. Once at the store, they will hopefully buy a new pair of shoes
or at least walk out with some other merchandise.
Increased Sales
The FormaLogix 3D Virtual Fit system
helps increase sales by giving people the confidence to purchase
shoes at any time from any channel. This is particularly the case of
direct (internet/catalog) sales which to date have consistently performed below those of their sister industry
Apparel.
By removing the issues of
concern surrounding size, retailers will find
a huge untapped market that will now feel comfortable to purchase
shoes directly - confident in the knowledge whatever they buy will
fit.
Buying direct also provides additional
sales opportunities as people are now exposed to a far greater selection and variety of footwear.
This will help fuel greater impulse buying as people will now have
access to a company's entire inventory, which far exceeds what can
be displayed in a store. The use of Virtual Fit
ID cards also opens up a whole new realm of gift buying
opportunities where people can buy footwear as a gift or on behalf of others,
either at a store or direct.
Reduced Returns
One of the key benefits of the FormaLogix 3D Virtual Fit system
is how it helps retailers reduce the number of returns that they get
from poor fitting shoes. Every shoe that comes back has to be
handled and restocked, if recoverable at all, and companies have to
not only absorb this cost, but also the lost opportunity cost of the
actual sale.
Improved Customer Satisfaction
The FormaLogix 3D Virtual Fit kiosk has
been specifically designed to provide a fun and engaging
experience for your customers. It's easy-to-use, touch screen
software and attractive design will draw traffic to your stores and
provide your customers with a unique shopping experience - a
shopping experience that they can take with them when they decide to
purchase online or through catalogs. (Something many have not done
due to existing
concerns over obtaining the best fit.) At the end of
the day your customers will realize and appreciate the extra effort
to ensure excellent comfort and fit, which helps to create and
maintain greater customer loyalty and support.
Greater Store Differentiation
The footwear industry is a saturated
marketplace where it is hard for a retailer to stand out from the
crowd - this is particularly the case where little product and price
differentiation makes it easier for customers to buy the shoes that
they want from a number of different sources. To compete, retailers
need to focus on service and experience as the key differentiating
factor for why people should shop with them. The FormaLogix 3D
Virtual Fit system provides a great example of how retailers can
differentiate themselves and reconnect with their customers. The
improved service and customer care will help keep their loyalty and
brand your company with the image as a key innovator and pioneer of
the industry.
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