Julien Berthomier, CEO of DIAKSE, was Delphine Sabattier's guest on B-Smart on July 17.
Today's debate centered on the difficulties faced by city-center stores. In a world where Internet consumption is exploding and jeopardizing the existence of small shops, what does the future hold for physical stores?

"Are city centers becoming local marketplaces?"

Alongside other web players, Julien presented DIAKSE's point of view. Our solution enables retailers to exist on the web by offering an immersive visit identical or complementary to the in-store shopping experience. Whether for a showroom or an online store, the design is simple, fast and inexpensive. Production is based on innovative, patented 360° photo technology. Unlike 3D digital design, it's very affordable.

A 360° virtual store offers the best possible showcase for the brand, the products or the concept store, without breaking the strong bond of trust established with the customer in the physical store. What's more, it frees you from the constraints of time and place.

It's becoming increasingly clear that an online presence is essential for any retailer. At the same time, town centers are experiencing repeated outlet closures, which are deteriorating the quality of life for city dwellers. And this year, the health crisis has considerably weakened 100% physical stores. Stores must therefore reinvent themselves. Implementing a phygital marketing strategy that enables real synergy between physical and virtual stores is essential if they are to continue to exist.

Watch the replay of the 17/07/2020 (starting at 11’50)