We partnered with Häfele to bring the concept of a future-forward merchant branch to life, combining immersive technology and digital innovation to redefine the customer experience for builders and trade professionals.

By leveraging immersive technology and customer-focused design, we delivered an engaging solution tailored to their innovative vision for the industry.

Häfele

What We Did:

– Concept development and design of digital-first merchant branches
– 3D visualisation

Industry:

– Retail, Builders Merchants

Results:

– Digitally-driven customer experience
– Fully sustainable micro-branch design
– Enhanced brand engagement through technology

Challenge:

The builders’ merchants sector is undergoing a seismic shift. Industry players must adapt to new consumer behaviors driven by digital disruption, heightened sustainability requirements, and increasing competition. Häfele recognised the need to create a next-generation branch experience that would meet their customers’ evolving demands while enhancing operational efficiency.

Approach:

The concept reimagined the merchant branch experience by combining digital innovation with customer-centred design. It included an AI-powered avatar host for personalised in-store guidance, e-commerce-ready kiosks for seamless product browsing, interactive product displays with pull-out drawers enriched by video content, and a striking 8K QLED video wall as the visual centrepiece. Omnichannel tools ensured continuity between in-store and digital journeys, while mobile ordering, live stock visibility, and trade-focused educational resources enhanced convenience and support.

The Output:

The ‘Merchant Branch of the Future’ by Häfele revolutionises the builders’ merchants sector by seamlessly integrating high-touch service with cutting-edge technology. By setting a new benchmark for digital transformation, Häfele positions itself as a leader in providing comprehensive support that elevates customer experience while boosting operational efficiency.

Virtual Product Exploration

Enabled via Mixed Reality headset and Linked video wall

Floor to ceiling 8K QLED video wall.

Acts as an attraction mechanism with video loop when not synced to the Mixed Reality headset.

“We’ve really enjoyed working with you and the team on this project. You’ve been incredibly flexible and responsive throughout, turning the brief around quickly and to a really high standard. It’s been noted – our senior leadership team has been really impressed”

Steph Beard – Häfele UK Ltd – Ecommerce Trading Manager

CONTACT US