How's my bum look, cyber pals?

21 November 2011
The Australian

When you look in the mirror at sportswear gian Lorna Jane's Chermside Park store in Brisbane and ask, "Does my bum look big in this?", prepare for your Facebook friends to deliver an answer.

In an attempt to get online shoppers away from their laptops and into stores, Lorna Jane has installed a SocialEyes mirror, developed by Queensland company Five Faces.

The digital mirror with touch-screen technology sends customised images to Lorna Jane's Facebook page but can also be enabled to access other social media sites.  "SocialEyes is the next step to make sure that our customers can continue enjoying the interactive experience they receive online while shopping instore," said Lorna Clarkson, founder of Lorna Jane.

"I initially thought that it was important to keep the online and bricks and mortar parts of our business separate, but times are moving quickly and this is where they can cross over."

Digital mirror technology is available internationally but this LCD version is the first to be taken up by an Australian retailer.

"This is all about omni-channel retailing," said Richard Matyear, business manager for Five Faces.  "There has been a focus on people developing technology for online stores but this is about bringing people back into stores."  For cosmetics companies, Five Faces is exploring technology that will create different make-up looks on your digital reflection.

The SocialEyes mirrors are a serious investment, with highly interactive models, but Clarkson said customers were pressuring stores to improve.

"This technology suits our customers. It's very girly. They can get the reassurance of their friends even when they're not with them," she said.

For media inquiries, please call:
Richard Matyear, Business Development Manager, Five Faces on mobile 0468 646 139 or email rmatyear@fivefaces.com.au