Walmart to acquire the Zeekit virtual fitting room platform
Walmart is to acquire the Zeekit virtual fitting room platform as it looks to improve the customer experience for those shopping for clothes online.
The retailer said the technology will help it deliver an inclusive, immersive and personalised experience for its diverse customer base.
The move will enable shoppers to virtually try on items from well-known brands such as Free People, Champion and Levi’s Strauss, as well as from a mix of exclusive brands like Time and Tru, Terra & Sky, Wonder Nation and George.
To use the platform, customers upload their picture or choose from a series of models that best represent their height, shape and skin tone to instantly see themselves in any item of clothing. They will also be able to share their virtual outfits with friends for a second opinion.
Denise Incandela, EVP of apparel and private brands at Walmart US, said: “Given its scalability, we believe Zeekit’s technology can also be used to create other fashion experiences, including the ability to build the world’s largest virtual closet and mix and match clothing seamlessly. These exciting technologies add a social element to the digital experience, allowing our customers to bring their unique personalities and preferences to shopping.”
Zeekit’s founders Yael Vizel, Alon Kristal and Nir Appleboim will remain in their respective roles of chief executive, chief technology officer and vice president of research and development following the acquisition.
Incandela added: “We’re confident that with the team’s expertise in bringing real-time image technologies, computer vision and artificial intelligence to the world of fashion, we’ll identify even more ways to innovate for our customers in our continued effort to be the first-choice destination for fashion.”
