Augmented reality technology has completely changed the world of markets and the consumer experience, and the same is true in the UK. It bridges the gap between physical shops and online shopping experiences. With augmented reality, the future of e-commerce is one where we move beyond the website and the mobile app

Online shopping has increased significantly, especially during the pandemic. According to a global survey of 20,000 consumers commissioned by Snap and conducted by Foresight Factory, it has shown that customers are better able to visualize the product and/or see it in the right place. According to another survey conducted in 2021, only 34% of respondents in the UK indicated in-shop purchase as a purchase option. In the same article we also learn that the use of augmented reality will explode. It is expected that 80% of those born between 1995 and 2010 will use the technology in the next five years. Interestingly, women are more interested in augmented reality experiences, both online and physical, than men. In addition, men aged 18to 35 have used more augmented reality applications both online and offline.

In UK, clothes and accessories are the most popular items purchased using augmented reality in both online and offline stores according to getapp.co.uk. Only 15% of consumers in the UK have used AR technology to buy something online. However, of the 85% who have not used the technology to shop online, more than half (53%) would be willing to try it.  AR technology is also used when buying cosmetics (40%).[1]

References

Key, M. (2019, September 23). Argos Augmented Reality Powered Shopping App. Engine Creative. https://www.enginecreative.co.uk/port folio/argos-augmented-reality-powered-shopping-app/

Navarrete, S. (2020, September 3). 1 in 2 consumers are willing to use AR technology for shopping. GetApp. https://www.getapp.co.uk/blog/1713/1-in-2-consumers-uk-willing-to-use-ar-technology-shopping

Pavlova, S. (2020, August 12). How 6 Brands Are Using Augmented Reality (and How You Can Too). Threekit. https://www.threekit.com/blog/6-brands-using-augmented-reality-in-ecommerce

Davies, R. (2021, June 8). Augmented Reality in Ecommerce: The Stats, Benefits & Example Campaigns. Reydar.

https://www.reydar.com/augmented-reality-ecommerce/

[1] https://www.getapp.co.uk/blog/1713/1-in-2-consumers-uk-willing-to-use-ar-technology-shopping