Retailers enhancing online offerings

Holition, a small U.K. technology firm, recently deployed tools that can bring mcommerce and ecommerce to life, allowing consumers to try on a range of clothes and accessories from the comfort of home.

The Telegraph reported that retailers can use the technology to entice shoppers to enter their stores, and increase online sales by enabling consumers to see what items look like on before purchasing. The newspaper described one way Selfridges has taken advantage of Holition technology, by passing out wristbands to people walking by the Oxford Street store in London. When these passersby held their wrists in front of a camera, a screen showed them "wearing" a luxury watch.

The goal of the technology is to connect retailers with licencing deals. If the tools make it more appealing to shop at a specific retailer or make various items more attractive, then retailers will likely receive better deals with designers. The company hopes the technology will integrate offline and online businesses, the firm's brand director told the Telegraph.

Also taking advantage of innovations in virtual shopping, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment recently launched its first Blu-ray/DVD virtual store in the U.K., powered by HMV's mobile application. QR codes will be placed on outdoor media and high street bus shelters, enabling consumers to browse and shop on the go from their mobile devices.