Virtual Store Specialist Integrates VR Headset

Chicago-based 3-D research specialist InContext Solutions has integrated its virtual reality (VR) headset into its flagship ShopperMX platform, allowing retailers and brands to view and collaborate on new retail concepts.

The firm, which has operations across the US and in London, conducts research using online 3-D environment simulations, and has developed applications for virtual store research, collaborative store planning and eCommerce. Its ShopperMX platform enables manufacturers and retailers to build, visualize and test in-store concepts within hyper-realistic retail simulations, and offers capabilities for testing store, aisle and category layouts, product packaging, in-store marketing and shopper flow.

The VR headset integration means retailers and brands can collaborate remotely on new in-store concepts, without the cost and time associated with planning, design and building in real life. For example, a CPG manufacturer could present a concept to the retailer through a VR headset on the ShopperMX platform, providing an immersive experience that allows the retailer to visualize the data and understand how a concept would work in reality, by seeing it as a customer would see it.

CEO Mark Hardy comments: 'This first-of-a-kind capability opens a brand-new door to retail innovation and disruption. Leveraging VR headsets makes our ShopperMX platform even more immersive and cost effective, for faster and intuitive collaboration between retailers and brands'.

Web site: www.incontextsolutions.com .