Project background and challenges : testimonial from NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto on the Virtual Showroom solution

Presentation of the interviewee

Mathilde Barberis, Sales Development Manager

Presentation of the company

Created in 2006, NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto is a brand of espresso machines and coffee capsules owned by Nestlé®, a multinational and major player in the food industry.

What was your problem?

Our main concern was consumer expectations in the coffee capsule and pod market in terms of environmental commitment. We aim to meet these expectations by offering a new paper-based pod machine: fully compostable. 

This machine, christened "NEO," is also eco-designed with an AA+ energy rating. However, we had to ensure that this transition to a more sustainable solution would not compromise the quality of our beverages, which is fundamental to the brand.

What were your objectives with this solution? 

Our main aim was to make the new NEO machine as easy to use as possible. It may look complex, but it's actually very simple to use, with just one button. An important innovation is that this machine is connected to an application that enables its many functions to be used from the customer's smartphone. Our challenge was to develop an effective pedagogical approach to explain all the functions of this avant-garde machine. We had to highlight the quality, durability, connectivity and other innovations that justify its selling price. Only an immersive showroom could respond so effectively. 

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Feedback on the solution implemented: NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto testifies to the Virtual Showroom solution

How did the Virtual Showroom solution help you solve your initial problem?

The Virtual Showroom solution was the perfect answer to our initial problem, because it enables us to help our customers discover the machine in an educational way. In concrete terms, we distributed a POS display near the machine to our dealers. The mechanism is very simple: we invite future buyers to connect to the virtual showroom via a simple QR code. Available directly from their cell phone, this virtual showroom shows the coffee machine in its actual environment, in this case a kitchen. Then, by interacting with Neo, consumers can interactively discover all the features on offer through videos and explanatory content. 

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What facilities/difficulties did you encounter in setting up?

The set-up proved to be smooth and efficient. The main difficulty lay in choosing the right words and messages to use. Fortunately, we were well supported by Josselin from Retail VR, who was able to meet our pedagogical needs. 

The working meetings were efficient, which contributed to a successful implementation. We then went on to provide further support to both retailers and customers. The availability of our teams was much appreciated.

What benefits did you perceive?

We haven't yet received any feedback from consumers - it's still early days - but internally, we've been very impressed by the quality of the proposed experience. The virtual showroom is consistent with our consumer target, allowing users to project themselves into their kitchens to see how the machine fits in.

Collaboration between NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto and Retail VR: Nescafé Dolce Gusto testifies about the Virtual Showroom solution

Why did you choose Retail VR?

We chose Retail VR thanks to very positive internal word-of-mouth, as we had particularly satisfied colleagues from other entities. Nestlé and Retail VR have been working together for several years, in particular on 3D merchandising issues.

What next for this project?

First of all, we can't wait to see the results and feedback from our customers. And we're looking forward to exploring new opportunities for collaboration.

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About us

The project

Type of showroom: 3D

Integrated content: video, 3D POI, video carousel

External connections: no

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Retail VR

Founded in 2018, Retail VR offers a 3D experience platform to accelerate sales and retail processes.

Limited travel, high showroom operating costs, reduced carbon footprints - in this context, it's hard to come up with new concepts, or successfully launch a product or run a promotional campaign.

Thanks to our 2D/3D converter, we can create 3D environments and content very quickly.

Our solutions help brand owners and retailers to simulate their points of sale, validate product launches and work on consumer studies. We also help them to digitalize their showrooms and offer immersive, brand-enhancing shopping experiences, thus saving time and money.