Insights into Immersive Experiences in Retail, based on a 2023 Survey

In the rapidly evolving world of retail, the integration of immersive experiences has emerged as a pivotal strategy to captivate and engage consumers. In Q4 2023, Obsess partnered with Coresight Research to conduct a study of 150 retail decision-makers, which sought to understand how retailers are thinking about immersive experiences—including how they are prioritizing investments, and which types of results they are seeing.

The full report is available to download for free here.

55% of brands and retailers will increase investment in immersive experiences in the next three years, according to Obsess and Coresight Research.

The report’s findings forecast the AR market to soar to $31.3 billion by 2027. Meanwhile, the VR market, though smaller, is set for significant growth, projected to escalate from $12.9 billion in 2023 to $20.7 billion by 2027. The growth rate of VR is notably 1.5 times greater than that of AR, highlighting a compelling trend in technological advancement and consumer adoption.

However, what makes this growth even more compelling is the insight derived from the survey conducted among industry respondents. More than half of all surveyed brands and retailers indicated that they would increase their investment in immersive experiences during the next three years. Likewise, an overwhelming 86% of respondents indicated a definite intent to increase their investment in immersive experiences over the next 10 years.

This high planned adoption rate within the next few years highlights an urgency around investing in immersive experiences. Despite economic challenges, surveyed brands and retailers have signaled that they will continue to invest in immersive experiences, emphasizing the value that companies believe they stand to gain from investing in this area.

88% of brands and retailers boosted sales with virtual stores, according to Obsess and Coresight Research.

Immersive experiences encompass a wide spectrum—from virtual stores and VR/AR-enabled try-on to AI-driven content for personalization and social shopping.

The impact of virtual stores is tangible, with an impressive 88% uplift in sales after investing in virtual stores. Likewise, brands partnering with Obsess witness up to 10X longer session times in virtual stores compared to traditional e-commerce platforms.

Stats about virtual store performance, based on a survey conducted by Obsess and Coresight research.

The survey identified seven types of immersive experiences, with four emerging as front-runners in revolutionizing consumer engagement within retail.

Interestingly, virtual try-on, virtual fashion shows/events, and livestreaming are already well-established immersive experiences in the market. The remaining four—virtual stores, gamified shopping experiences, social shopping, and data/AI-enabled content for personalization—are gaining traction among brands and retailers as innovative avenues to boost sales and enrich consumer interactions.

The survey delved into the considerations that companies planning to invest in each type of immersive experience deemed most critical within the upcoming 12 months. Notably:

  1. Virtual Stores and Gamified Shopping Experiences: Retailers prioritize a seamless user experience, with a “user-friendly interface” ranking high. Additionally, the importance of “mobile responsiveness” underscores the shift towards catering to mobile-savvy consumers.
  2. Data/AI-enabled Content for Personalization: Companies emphasize tailored engagement, leveraging data insights for personalization. Notably, “data analytics and insights” top the list for virtual stores, signaling a shift towards leveraging consumer behavior data, similar to the approach used in physical stores.
  3. Social Shopping: Cost emerges as a critical factor, potentially attributed to expenses related to creator-generated content, celebrity endorsements, and user-community activities.

These insights underscore a strategic shift in how retailers perceive and approach immersive experiences. Beyond the technological novelty, companies prioritize aspects that directly impact consumer engagement and satisfaction, aiming to minimize friction and enhance the overall experience.

The report illuminates the evolving landscape of immersive experiences in retail, offering a roadmap for businesses aiming to navigate and harness the potential of new technologies. The integration of immersive experiences into retail is not merely a trend but a strategic imperative, aligning with the evolving preferences of modern consumers. As businesses invest in these technologies, they aim to not only boost sales but also glean invaluable insights into consumer behavior, enabling more informed marketing strategies and innovative approaches to store layout and inventory management.

Download the full report here.

Obsess Joins the Adobe Commerce Partner Program

Obsess joins the Adobe Commerce Marketplace, and offers Adobe Commerce customers a seamless, end-to-end 3D e-commerce experience. As an official Adobe Partner, our extension is available on the Adobe Commerce Marketplace. The extension enables Adobe customers to integrate their Adobe Commerce site with an Obsess-powered virtual store, and pull up-to-date product information.

Integrating with Adobe Commerce

The Obsess X Adobe extension brings Adobe Commerce customers into the next generation of immersive, discovery-driven shopping. By integrating with Adobe Commerce, Obsess enables Adobe customers to create virtual stores with dynamic product and inventory updates. Brands can easily connect their 3D product models to Adobe Commerce and keep them up-to-date. Dynamic product and inventory updates, empower brands to create immersive and engaging 3D virtual experiences that increase conversions and sales. Through the Adobe extensions, we are able to expedite virtual store launches and dynamic merchandising for Adobe customers.

We are excited to be an official Adobe Partner on the Commerce Marketplace. This partnership enables Obsess to reach a wider audience, and provide customers with seamless 3D e-commerce experiences. For more information on how the Obsess extension works on the Adobe Marketplace, click here.

Obsess is transforming the generic e-commerce grid interface into immersive 3D virtual stores that are interactive, creative and custom. Virtual stores live on a brand’s e-commerce site, and are accessible anywhere with a browser–no headset or login required. Obsess virtual stores connect to brand’s e-commerce systems to enable a seamless, unified check-out experience and real-time updates to product inventory. 

To learn more about partnership opportunities and integrating your commerce cloud with Obsess-powered immersive experiences, email us at partnerships@obsessvr.com or book a demo

Virtual Stores for the Pet Industry

Virtual stores have revolutionized the way consumers shop, and the pet retail industry is the latest to join the trend. From pet supplies and accessories to specialized services, these digital havens cater to the needs of animal lovers worldwide. 

Increased Accessibility

Virtual pet stores are more accessible than traditional brick-and-mortar pet stores. Regardless of geographical location or time zone, pet owners can shop anytime, anywhere. This convenience factor not only saves time and increases audience reach, but also ensures a seamless shopping experience for pet owners who prioritize their pets’ well-being.

With Obsess virtual stores, brands and retailers in the pet industry can offer prospective and current pet owners an immersive and engaging way of shopping online; brands and retailers will be able to provide their shoppers with the most suited products and services for their pets. By including informative content and virtual consultations, virtual stores can also serve as educational hubs—especially since buyers need to be well informed before purchasing anything for their pets, as it can drastically affect their health. 

Virtual stores for pets can also serve as a venue to book a range of specialized services. From online veterinary consultations to training programs and pet daycare booking, these platforms offer a comprehensive suite of services to cater to every aspect of pet care. Virtual consultations with experienced veterinarians provide pet owners with expert advice and peace of mind, especially in situations where physical visits may be challenging. Moreover, online training programs allow pet owners to conveniently enhance their pet’s skills and behavior through video tutorials and interactive modules.

Foster Community

As virtual stores for pets continue to evolve, they foster a sense of community among pet lovers. Virtual stores now  incorporate social elements, such as Shop with Friends, live chat and online communities, where pet owners can connect, share experiences and seek advice from fellow enthusiasts. This digital community aspect adds an extra layer of engagement and support for pet owners, making the virtual store experience more enriching.

Virtual stores for the pet industry are revolutionizing the pet retail landscape, offering unparalleled convenience, accessibility and a wide range of products and services. With their interactive interfaces, extensive product and service offerings, these virtual platforms have now become a go-to destination for pet brands worldwide to connect with their consumers.


To learn more about how the Obsess virtual store platform is reshaping the pet retail landscape, email us at contact@obsessVR.com or book a demo

Virtual Stores for the Hotel Industry

Virtual hotel experiences empower potential guests to embark on a virtual journey, exploring the hotel’s accommodations before making their booking decisions. In an immersive 3D environment, potential guests can visualize the rooms’ ambiance, design and layout to gain an intricate understanding of the hotel’s offerings. This immersive exploration empowers guests to make informed, curated decisions based on their preferences, ensuring a delightful and tailored experience upon arrival.

Obsess’s virtual experiences offer a range of advantages for the hotel industry, including improved visualization, increased convenience, personalized experiences, efficient event planning and cost savings. They enhance customer engagement, optimize operational processes and support sustainable practices, ultimately benefiting both hotels and their guests.

Enhance the Hotel Booking Experience

By booking through immersive virtual hotel experiences, guests can access a wealth of information at their fingertips. From examining room layouts and configurations to virtually strolling through the hotel’s public spaces, the convenience of this technology is unparalleled. Potential guests can save time and effort by narrowing down their choices and focusing on hotels that truly align with their preferences and requirements, all from the comfort of their own homes.

Improve Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty

Booking reservations through an interactive virtual hotel experience improves customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing potential guests with a realistic experience even before stepping foot into the hotel. By immersing themselves in virtual tours of the amenities and visualizing the hotel’s offerings through virtualized retail, guests can set accurate expectations, leading to enhanced satisfaction during their stay. This transparency builds trust between guests and hotels, fostering positive guest experiences and forging lasting relationships.

Increase Guest Spending

In addition to the immersive exploration and realistic experiences, virtual reservations offer a seamless and user-friendly booking process. Once guests have explored the hotel virtually, they can easily complete the reservation within the virtual platform. This eliminates the need for users to navigate different websites or switch between applications, streamlining the entire booking journey. Guests can return to the virtual experience after booking and during their stay to purchase room upgrades, dining and spa reservations and additional hotel services.  

Virtual hotel experiences have redefined the way we book hotels, bringing convenience, transparency and enhanced satisfaction to potential guests. By offering immersive exploration, informed decisions, realistic experiences and seamless bookings, this technology has become a game-changer in the hospitality industry. 

To learn more about how Obsess virtual stores can be used by the hotel industry to empower potential and current guests to increase bookings, contact our team at contact@obsessVR.com or book a demo.

Virtual Stores for the Alcohol and Spirits Industry

Obsess is reinventing the way alcohol brands engage their consumers. Through our virtual experiences, alcohol and spirits brands can meet their customers online with immersive environments accessible via web or mobile, and create new ways to maximize event sponsorships, or host online events.

Brands can build a branded virtual experience hosted on their websites for consumers to learn more about their brand, join exclusive events or purchase products from a multitude of retailers. By integrating with alcohol retailer’s sites through multi-retailer checkout, brands’ e-commerce platforms or alcohol delivery services like Drizly—alcohol brands can facilitate convenient purchases and ensure a seamless user buying experience. 

Obsess virtual stores empower alcohol brands to engage their target audience on a deeper level in an immersive and interactive environment. Brands can take their consumers through their production processes and guide them through their facilities—for example, capturing the beauty of a vineyard or distillery. 

Alcohol brands can also use virtual stores to maximize their sponsorship strategy, complimenting their partner assets with engaging content, gamified experiences or transportative audio and playlists—increasing brand recognition for their partners. 

Obsess virtual stores have the ability to incorporate social commerce features such as live streaming capabilities, Shop with Friends, Branded Avatars and more. These virtual experiences serve as a way to host exclusive events, enabling alcohol brands to double down on customer loyalty efforts. For example, Corona Premier used their Virtual Clubhouse to host an exclusive sweepstakes for their consumers, taking one lucky winner on an all-inclusive trip to the 2023 US Open. Alcohol brands can also host tasting events or promotional events when releasing new flavors to strengthen their community. 

Unlock new possibilities in the world of alcohol by embracing technology with immersive experiences, and enhance brand engagement.

To learn more about how Obsess virtual stores can be used to engage your community of consumers, contact our team at contact@obsessVR.com or book a demo.

Virtual Stores for the Gaming Development Industry

Gaming companies are constantly seeking innovative strategies to cut through the marketplace noise and effectively reach their target audience. Traditional online gaming stores, with their static user interface, often leave users without much to consume or to interact with; immersive 3D environments transform game discovery by letting gamers explore endless content, interact with games prior to purchase and engage in game-centric activities, challenges and discussions.

Virtual stores offer gaming companies a way to incorporate extensive game-related content into their marketing and storytelling. Companies can construct interactive displays to reveal developer insights, character backgrounds and intricate storyline details. 

Virtual gaming experiences present a unique opportunity for game development companies to deliver exclusive content. Game developers can tease their audience with sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes footage or even early access to certain levels or characters; generating gamer interest and building attachment, leading to increased sales over time.

This contextualization deepens the connection between gamers and their selected games. Users are empowered with the freedom to delve into game-worlds, preview scenarios, purchase merchandise and more, facilitating an engaging gaming journey.

To learn more about how Obsess virtual stores can be used to enhance your brand’s relationship with your gamers, contact our team at contact@obsessVR.com or book a demo.

Virtual Stores for the Consumer Electronics Industry

In the rapidly evolving landscape of global e-commerce, consumer electronics companies are constantly seeking innovative ways to stand out from the competition and capture the attention of tech-savvy consumers. One such solution that has emerged as a game-changer is the concept of virtual stores. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, consumer tech brands can create dedicated brand showrooms and virtual flagships that offer immersive and engaging experiences to customers. 

1. Immersive Brand Showrooms

Virtual store technology allows consumer tech brands to create highly interactive and immersive brand showrooms that replicate the essence of their brand. By utilizing advanced features and designs, these virtual showrooms can showcase key products in a visually stunning and captivating environment. With the ability to drive consumer education and engagement, virtual stores provide an ideal platform for brands to highlight their product features, demonstrate functionalities and create a lasting impression on potential buyers.

2. Internal Training and Product Launches

Consumer electronics companies can also utilize virtual store technology for internal purposes, such as training team members on new products or conducting product launches. Virtual stores provide a cost-effective and efficient solution for disseminating knowledge and educating employees. With the ability to amplify content for education, brands can ensure that their workforce is well-equipped to provide exceptional customer support and technical assistance. Additionally, virtual stores enable consumer electronic companies to extend their educational initiatives to end consumers, further enhancing brand credibility and customer satisfaction.

3. Cost Savings and Global Reach

One of the most significant advantages of virtual stores for consumer electronics companies is the ability to maximize cost savings. By eliminating the need for physical infrastructure, rent and staffing costs associated with physical conferences and showrooms, brands can significantly reduce operational expenses. Moreover, virtual stores offer a wider global reach, enabling companies to break geographical barriers and tap into new markets. This expansion opens up immense growth opportunities for consumer tech brands and allows them to connect with a diverse customer base from around the world.

In the highly competitive world of consumer electronics, virtual electronics stores have emerged as a necessity for brands seeking to differentiate themselves and create unforgettable brand experiences. With their ability to provide immersive showrooms, drive engagement, offer cost-effective technical support and expand global reach, virtual stores empower consumer electronics companies to thrive in the digital era. By embracing this innovative technology, brands can captivate their audience, foster brand loyalty and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving landscape of e-commerce.

To learn more about how Obsess virtual stores can be used to transform your brand’s presence and unlock new opportunities in the digital realm, contact our team at contact@obsessVR.com or book a demo.

Virtual Stores for the Home Appliance Industry

In today’s fast-paced world, where convenience and innovation are paramount, Home Appliance brands face the challenge of providing customers with an immersive and seamless shopping experience. That’s where the Obsess virtual store platform comes in, revolutionizing the way people shop for appliances and transforming the industry as we know it.

With the Obsess virtual store platform, Home Appliance brands can now offer their customers a truly interactive and immersive 3D shopping environment. Gone are the days of static product descriptions and limited visuals. Our platform empowers customers to explore a wide range of appliances, evaluate their features and functionalities, and visualize how they will fit into their homes or storefronts, all from the comfort of their own screens.

Imagine being able to try out appliances virtually, interact with them to learn more about their functions and efficiencies, and watch videos showcasing their capabilities in action. The Obsess virtual store platform brings these possibilities to life, bridging the gap between physical and online shopping. Customers can now make informed decisions, confident that the appliances they choose are a perfect fit for their needs.

Obsess Virtual Store Platform for Home and Appliance Brands

But the benefits of the Obsess virtual store platform don’t stop there. We understand that shopping is a social experience, and our platform reflects that. With our innovative features, customers can invite friends, family members, or colleagues to join their shopping journey. Collaborate, gather opinions, and make decisions together in real-time. It’s a truly engaging and interactive experience that enhances the overall satisfaction of the shopping process.

We’ve also incorporated gamification into the platform, adding an element of discoverability and interactivity to the shopping experience. Customers can participate in guided quizzes to test their knowledge and set themselves up for success. And for those who enjoy a challenge, themed virtual scavenger hunts—like collecting glowing electricity bolts throughout an electrical appliance virtual store—unlocks enticing incentives and makes the shopping journey even more rewarding for consumers.

Example of kitchen appliance mixer in an Obsess virtual store

Our platform equips all appliance virtual stores with a wealth of resources to support customers in their appliance shopping journey. Whether it’s information on installation, maintenance, or support, customers can access comprehensive guides and live chat integration for guided shopping. We aim to provide the ultimate convenience and assistance to ensure a seamless and satisfying experience for every customer.

When customers are ready to make a purchase, the Obsess virtual store platform offers a seamless checkout process via e-commerce integration.

Virtual commercial kitchen with appliances for sale through Obsess virtual store platform

So, if you’re a Home Appliance brand looking to transform the way your customers shop, it’s time to explore the possibilities offered by the Obsess virtual store platform. Embrace the future of Home Appliance shopping today and provide your customers with an unparalleled experience that will set your brand apart from the competition.

Book a demo to learn more about the Obsess virtual store platform and unlock a world of endless possibilities for your appliance business.

Virtual Stores for the Automotive Industry

Virtual car showrooms have revolutionized the way we shop for cars, offering an immersive and educational buying journey. Through advanced visualizations, comprehensive information and personalized guidance, consumers can explore and select their dream car while avoiding the traditional high-pressure sales tactics. By the time buyers schedule an in-person test drive, they are already equipped with knowledge and confidence, leading to a more rewarding and efficient car-buying experience. Empower your shoppers to discover, explore and select their dream car at their own pace, from anywhere in the world with Obsess virtual showrooms for automotive brands.

1. Embrace Immersion

Virtual car showrooms provide a visually captivating and interactive experience that transports potential buyers into a virtual automotive wonderland. With high-quality 3D models, realistic animations and detailed visualizations, consumers can explore every angle and detail of their desired car, as if they were physically present at a dealership. From the exterior design to the interior features, buyers can visualize their future car in stunning detail, creating a strong emotional connection before making any commitments.

2. Education at Your Fingertips

One of the key advantages of virtual showrooms is the wealth of information readily available to consumers. Instead of relying solely on salespeople and printed brochures for product knowledge, buyers can digitally access comprehensive details about each car’s specifications, features and performance. Virtual showrooms will include informative pop-ups, videos and interactive elements that provide valuable insights. This immersive yet educational experience ensures that shoppers are well-informed about the cars they are considering, and empowers consumers to make educated decisions based on their preferences and needs.

3. Personalized Guidance

Virtual car showrooms also offer personalized guidance, tailored to individual preferences. Intelligent chatbots and virtual assistants can interact with consumers, answering questions, providing recommendations and guiding them through the car selection process. By understanding the buyer’s requirements and preferences, these virtual assistants can suggest suitable models, compare different options and help users narrow down their choices. The result is a hyper-personalized and efficient shopping experience.

4. Stress-Free Decision Making

Virtual showrooms alleviate the stress often associated with the traditional car-buying process by empowering buyers to explore at their own pace. Buyers can take their time with various models, comparing features and envisioning themselves behind the wheel. Without the pressure of an eager salesperson pushing for a quick sale, consumers can make decisions with clarity and confidence. This relaxed atmosphere fosters a positive buying experience, ensuring that buyers feel empowered and satisfied with their choices.

5. Convenient Test Drive Scheduling

Once buyers have thoroughly explored their desired car virtually, the next step is scheduling an in-person test drive. Virtual showrooms simplify this process by integrating with the dealership’s booking systems. With a few clicks, users can select a convenient time slot and book their test drive, minimizing the hassle of coordinating schedules over the phone or in person. By the time buyers arrive for their test drive, they are already well-acquainted with the car, making the experience more focused and productive.

To learn more about how Obsess virtual stores can be used in the car buying journey, and empower your consumers through increased education, contact our team at contact@obsessVR.com or book a demo.

Virtual Stores for the Sporting Goods Industry

Obsess is enabling sports equipment brands and retailers to create immersive shopping experiences that provide comprehensive resources and information to educate customers about their products and the sport. With engaging videos, tutorials and expert advice, sporting goods brands are able to immerse their shoppers in their respective sport like a pro. 

Virtualize Your Sporting Goods Retail Store

Specialized Bicycle Components created a shoppable, virtualized retail version of their IRL Chicago store. The virtual store mirrors the Chicago location, but contains additional interactive features such as promotional videos, a community wall, special events calendar and more, for online shoppers to engage with anywhere in the world. 

Specialized bikes virtual store

From helmets and shoulder pads to gloves and cleats, virtual sporting goods stores carry a wide range of equipment for a diverse selection of sports at your fingertips. Virtual stores are able to connect with a multitude of retailers so sports brands’ customers can find their products on a variety of sites. Whether your shoppers are seasoned players or just starting out, they are able to find exactly what they need to enhance their performance. 

Engage Sporting Goods Consumers with a Personalized Experience

Brands and retailers are also able to embed interactive content that is engaging and empowers their consumers to determine what they need. Customers can put their skills to the test with a virtual branded game, get product recommendations fit for their goals with personalized quizzes, host events in sponsorship with professional athletes or host a live streaming event around major sporting events. Obsess virtual stores enable brands to bring professional athletes and various sports personalities into the experience to engage with fans in avatar format or through promotional campaign content. 

Virtual sporting goods stores are interactive experiences with a variety of content and features for sports enthusiasts to enjoy a one-stop-shop experience that combines shopping, learning and interactive fun. 

To learn more about how virtual sporting goods stores are reshaping the sports industry, email us at contact@obsessVR.com or book a demo.