Stepping up retail gadgetry

TEANECK, N.J. — Aetrex Worldwide is bringing shoppers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience featuring the most advanced technology in the footwear industry with the opening of its first retail concept in Englewood, N.J. An invite-only grand opening celebration will be held June 2.


While Aetrex is clearly focused on selling shoes, the new store opens a window onto how retailers across various channels can use technology to “step up” customer experience. The 2,400-sq.-ft. store features iStep Wave, a digital foot-scanning technology that measures foot size and determines arch type and pressure points in less than 30 seconds. The Wave can be operated with handheld wireless devices with foot scans instantly displayed on a monitor or sent virally via MMS or email to customers. Customers also can interact with one of two “Magic Tables,” which are powered by Microsoft Surface technology. The touchscreen technology enables customers to learn about Aetrex products by placing the shoe on the graphical interface. There’s also mobile point-of-sale technology by Apple that streamlines the entire purchase process with a bar code scan. The handheld mobile device checks for inventory and allows customers to pay with a credit card swipe, while an e-receipt is sent via email.