How Web3 transforms Product Launches
Pre-orders have long been a important driver of commerce, offering brands a vital tool to secure sales, improve cash flow, and gauge customer demand. This concept extends from securing the latest runway fashion to supporting creative endeavors on Kickstarter.
While the benefits for brands are clear - secured sales, improved cash flow, a measurement of demand - the end customer experience leaves much to be desired. After that initial rush of excitement, the customer plays the waiting game - oftentimes months.
A digital-first product launch can turn a transactional preorder into an experiential journey.
Imagine this:
Kai Scores Exclusive Digital Sneakers (on his morning commute!)
Meet Kai, a sneakerhead who just snagged a pair of limited-edition "Horizon" digital kicks. Unlike the usual store visit, he secured them online, on his phone, during his morning commute. It felt a bit like a pre-order, except instead of waiting weeks or months, he'd get immediate access to a digital version of the sneakers.
A World Beyond the Picture: Exploring the "Horizons"
Kai's digital "Horizons" aren't just a static image or a simple voucher to be redeemed for the physical shoes. The digital version boasts a sleek, color-shifting design that comes alive with movement. The design tells a story that creates an emotional connection to Kai. He can zoom in, explore intricate details in 3D, and his excitement for the real deal grows with every virtual interaction.
Owning the digital version unlocked perks: exclusive interviews with the shoe's designer, early access to future drops, and a ticket to an in-person event at the flagship store. These digital products create a new, more engaging connection with customers after the preorder. It is a vehicle for brands to engage early adopters beyond email updates.
The Power of Choice: A Thriving Marketplace
The fashion brand takes things a step further by offering a thriving secondary marketplace for these digital collectibles. So, if someone missed out on the preorder, they can pick one up from another customer. This flexibility, combined with the unlocked perks, makes the initial purchase a win-win.
From Virtual to Reality: The Journey Continues
Months later, the physical "Horizons" finally land at Kai's doorstep. But the experience doesn't end there. The seamless transition from the virtual world to the physical transforms a simple pre-order into a compelling journey – one filled with anticipation, engagement, and exclusive benefits.
This is the future of product launches. It's about creating experiences that transcend the transaction, fostering a deeper connection between brands and their customers.
Gigantik provides an end-to-end, user-friendly platform for product launches, powered by Web3 - a full suite of features and capabilities to level up product launches.