Virtual reality department store launched - ARA

THE Australian Retailers Association (ARA) commends the collaborative innovation of eBay and Myer in creating the world’s first Virtual Reality (VR) Department Store, providing an exciting look into the future of retailing.

Launched yesterday, the trial of the VR department store concept is the result of a joint project between Australia’s largest online marketplace, eBay, and iconic Australian retailer, Myer.

Customers can browse Myer’s range of over 12000 products on eBay entirely within the virtual environment, made possible through a digital application and specifically designed VR headset.

ARA Executive Director, Russell Zimmerman, said this partnership reflects the commitment of these industry leaders in advancing the ecommerce experience and omnichannel approach to retailing.

“We congratulate Myer and eBay on this exciting initiative, and we look to the future of virtual shopping technology for both retailers and customers alike.

“This immersive platform blends both digital and physical retail environments, providing a seamless experience for consumers to personalise, explore, research and purchase products.

“Truly a first for the industry, the development and trial of this technology is at the forefront of retail innovation and represents promising new opportunities for retailers,” Mr Zimmerman said.

Australian consumers can be the first to experience virtual reality shopping, with Myer and eBay offering 15000 cardboard virtual reality viewers free-of-charge. 

These ‘Shopticals’ are available from www.ebay.com.au/VR.

Since 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has been the peak industry body representing Australia’s $300 billion retail sector, which employs over 1.2 million people. The ARA ensures retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 5,000 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. Visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.

 

About the Australian Retailers Association:

Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is the retail industry’s peak representative body representing Australia’s $293 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. The ARA works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 5,000 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.

ENDS