International e-tailer retailer eBay and Myer have joined forces to create the world's first virtual reality department store. The virtual space features more than 12.500 products from Myer, and can be browsed, selected and added to a cart using eBay Sight Search.
"Until now we have not had the opportunity to physically experience the transformative effect VR could have on retail. By building the world’s first VR Department Store here in Australia and observing the reactions of thousands of consumers who trial the experience, we have the opportunity to lead the world into the next phase of retailing," said Jooman Park, managing director, eBay Australia and New Zealand.
The VR department store connects to eBay Australia, allowing for full access to the Myer product range, pricing a stock, all of which can have its information updated in real time.
"It’s been important to us that we don’t just replicate the e-commerce experience in a virtual environment. We are taking the best elements of traditional retail and expanding on them to improve browsing, selection, personalization and efficiency."
eBay and Myer are offering customers the opportunity to receive shopticals, a device specifically crafted to allow for VR viewing, free of charge for the first 15,000 who register.
“We hope our shopticals make it into the hands of technology lovers, but more importantly, shoppers who might not live close to a department store and can now experience virtual shopping from the comfort of their home,” said Park.
If successful in Australia, the VR department store could mark the future direction not only for eBay and Myer but other retailers looking to embrace new technologies.
“Our customers can now immerse themselves in the experience of shopping inside a Myer store from wherever they may be, with product information updated in real time to ensure everyone can keep up with the latest offers from Myer," said Richard Umbers, CEO, Myer.
