The Environmental Impact of Online Shopping
The rise of online shopping has led to a big increase in clothing returns, with a recent survey finding that 70% of clothing items ordered online are sent back. This has a considerable impact on the environment, with the transportation of returned items contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and waste.
The Problem of Bracket Shopping
One of the principal reasons for the high return rate is the practice of "bracket shopping," where consumers order multiple sizes and colours of an item with the intention of returning those that do not fit or aren’t the correct color. This not only increases the fee of shipping and handling but additionally results in a big amount of waste.
The Solution: Augmented Reality
Researchers have been exploring the usage of augmented reality (AR) technology to scale back the variety of returns and improve the web shopping experience. AR allows consumers to see a picture of themselves in a garment, which may also help them make more informed purchasing decisions. A recent study found that participants who used AR to try on a dress were more prone to wish to buy it, and had a more positive attitude towards the garment.
How AR Works
There are two principal methods of virtual try-on: creating an avatar using body measurements, and using AR to overlay a garment onto a consumer’s image. The study focused on the latter method, using a pc screen as a mirror to reflect the buyer’s image and overlay the garment.
The Study’s Findings
The study found that AR was effective in helping consumers find the correct size, but had limitations when it got here to evaluating fit. Participants had trouble assessing the fit of the garment, particularly across the bust, waist, and hips. However, they responded well to the virtual dress, with high attitudes and buy intentions.
The Benefits of AR
The use of AR technology has several advantages, including reducing the variety of returns and improving the web shopping experience. It may help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions, which may result in increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
The Future of Online Shopping
The study’s findings have significant implications for the long run of online shopping. As AR technology continues to evolve, it’s prone to turn into an increasingly essential tool for consumers and retailers. With the present COVID-19 crisis resulting in the closure of brick and mortar stores, the necessity for effective online shopping solutions has never been more pressing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the usage of AR technology has the potential to revolutionize the web shopping experience, reducing the variety of returns and improving customer satisfaction. As the technology continues to evolve, it’s prone to play an increasingly essential role in the style industry, helping to scale back waste and improve the environmental sustainability of online shopping.
