Former Ikea exec Michael Valdsgaard unveils AR venture London Dynamics

Michael Valdsgaard, former Senior VP Digital Transformation at Ikea, has launched a UK-based augmented reality startup called London Dynamics.

“We are bringing online shopping back into the physical world by enabling that long awaited augmented reality revolution” Valdsgaard said in a keynote presentation at Retail Without Borders, which took place in London this week.

“The evidence of massive disruption buffeting retailers in the UK can’t be denied,” he added. “Lasting change isn’t coming for retail, it’s already here, and AR has similarly arrived to offer a new and powerful way to respond to changing customer demographics and demands.”

He wants retailers and brands to have an accessible plug and play solution for AR; allowing their customers to make better purchase decisions and convert sales by adding a physical experience to online shopping. “Without a shadow of a doubt, AR has the potential to entirely overturn the way we look for, buy, and sell things online.”

Valdsgaard also explained his decision to establish his business in the UK. “The UK has a credible claim as one of the largest and most sophisticated retail markets in the world. This presents huge opportunity for retailers, and technologists like us. With access to the right talent, infrastructure and a digitally fluent and urban customer base, London has real potential to become the global launchpad for the most ambitious and exciting retail experiences in the world.”

You can find out further info on the venture here. Valdsgaard will also be taking part in our Startup Stories Q&A section. The interview will go live next week and is not to be missed.