Walmart drops ZEPETO update as virtual experiences directly influence what Gen Z purchase IRL
Platforms like ZEPETO are reshaping how Gen Z discovers and buys from brands.
So says Justin Breton, Head of Brand Partnerships & Emerging Experiences.
In a LinkedIn post, he said: "Our latest ZEPETO update features a new No Boundaries drop and a Halloween themed brand shop, each designed to spark creativity and self-expression in one of Gen Z’s most dynamic virtual spaces."
He noted that nearly half of Gen Z engages in immersive worlds and they say that virtual experiences directly influence what they purchase IRL. "With immersive commerce now fully integrated, users can seamlessly move from inspiration to transaction, all without leaving the experience," he added.
Breton concluded: "The future of commerce isn’t about where people shop... It’s about where they connect with the brands they love, and how those connections convert into positive brand reappraisal and business growth."
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
Immersive experiences were a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.
For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
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