At Tech For Retail, Retail VR and TotalEnergies hosted a joint conference demonstrating how Retail VR's platform, with its native 3D management, simplified data integration and ease of use, can effectively support local teams in implementing their service station merchandising strategy. This collaboration illustrates the potential of a platform like Retail VR to improve performance and optimize processes. Here's a look back at an inspiring use case.
The global challenge of standardization and flexibility
With 4,300 stores in 66 countries, TotalEnergies faces a dual challenge: standardizing its concepts while adapting its stores to local realities. To this end, merchandising strategy through the "Mobility" concept becomes a central element. "We were looking for a solution that was easy to use, shareable and accessible to all our subsidiaries," explains Géral Buisson, International Shop Manager at TotalEnergies.
Three key objectives
- Simplification of processes: subsidiaries were sometimes limited to home-made tools such as PowerPoint or photos of shelves, which could lead to misunderstandings between teams. Retail VR offers intuitive, realistic solutions for creating 3D layouts adapted to local needs.
- Dynamic planogram creation: stores can generate precise planograms, shared digitally via QR codes. This makes it easy to compare reality on the ground with theoretical objectives.
- Improved performance: Retail VR tools, such as 3D Store Builder and 3D Planogram Studio, enable visual analysis of in-store product category performance, facilitating decision-making.
A 3D-driven transformation
At the conference, the teams presented the key Retail VR tools, including 3D Store Builder. This tool converts a simple 2D plan into an immersive 3D model. "In just a few minutes, we can recreate a complete store layout," explains Erwan, CEO of Retail VR.
As for 3D Planogram Studio, it simplifies shelf design by integrating items modeled from simple photos. Planograms can be compared with in-store reality thanks to augmented reality and QR codes.
Finally, analytical tools enable performance to be visualized on the basis of key data such as sales or margins by product category. This integrated view optimizes merchandising strategy and facilitates rapid assortment adjustment.
Gradual, promising adoption
Although the pilot phase is still underway, initial feedback has been very positive. Even geographically remote subsidiaries have adopted these tools with great ease. Repeated remote training sessions have enabled local teams to get to grips with the system smoothly and with greater autonomy.
"These tools meet our expectations in terms of simplification and optimization. They offer a global and operational vision, adapted to our needs in the field," concludes Gérald Buisson.
Towards new frontiers
Beyond merchandising, Retail VR opens up new perspectives with "virtual commerce" experiences, linking virtual stores directly to e-commerce platforms. Although this area is still in the exploration phase, it promises to redefine the continuity between physical and digital merchandising.
This collaboration between Retail VR and TotalEnergies illustrates how technological innovation can transform retail operations on a global scale. A concrete example of the power of 3D in the service of performance.
Looking for a simple yet powerful tool to transform your shelves? Discover Retail VR and boost your product displays!