Gala Retail has unveiled a pioneering virtual-reality (VR) store layout simulator.
Believed to be a first-of-its-kind initiative within the convenience retail industry in Ireland and Europe, Gala Retail noted that it has invested almost €100,000 in cutting-edge technology to enhance the store-planning experience for retailers, maximising every square foot of retail space.
The technology also enables new retailers to the group to have an immersive experience when visualising what their future Gala store could look like.
Commenting on the innovative VR technology, Gary Desmond, CEO at Gala Retail, said, “At Gala Retail, we are committed to providing our retailers with tools that help empower their success.
“This ground-breaking simulator not only showcases the potential of Gala stores, but also underpins Gala Retail’s commitment to fostering innovation within the convenience retail sector.”
State-Of-The-Art Technology
According to the convenience retailer, the technology was first available for Gala retailers to try out at the annual Gala Conference, where the Gala Group celebrated its 25th year in business and outlined its ‘steadfast commitment’ to retail excellence.
The new VR simulator, developed in collaboration with Irish-based group Mersus Technologies, allows retailers to ‘step into the future via a simulated Gala store environment’.
This state-of-the-art technology has been designed to ‘breathe life’ into new-store layouts, enabling retailers to visualise and navigate a Gala store from the initial planning stages.
“By leveraging this innovative simulator, retailers gain valuable insights into the potential of a Gala store, demonstrating how strategic refurbishments can boost turnover and profits through intelligent space utilisation and the integration of advanced concepts,” said Siobhan Grimes, retail operations manager, Gala Retail.
“Our virtual-reality simulator goes beyond conventional planning methods.
“It offers a transformative experience, allowing retailers to explore the future of their Gala store in a remarkably immersive way.
“By embracing this cutting-edge technology, we aim to revolutionise the way our retailers conceptualise and plan their stores, driving growth and innovation within the Gala family.”
