Businesses are understanding the power of social media in such a way that apps are now popping up that capitalize on the platforms; take Project September as the perfect example. As though inspired by Instagram, it allows users to post photos and others to click on those images in order to buy items they like on the spot.
Created by Alexis Maybank, founder of Gilt Groupe, Project September is highly visual because of this feature. Designed to look like a spread in a fashion magazine, it is also very easy to use. Users can follow friends, influencers and brands to see a slew of content, swiping left and right to go from photo to photo.
Bloggers, fashion editors, celebrities, and others will also get commission from each purchase.
Immediate Shopping Apps
Project September Allows Shoppers to Click an Image to Buy
Trend Themes
1. Image-based Shopping - Apps and platforms that leverage visual content for direct purchasing create a new space for businesses to easily reach customers and facilitate transactions.
2. Social Media E-commerce - The convergence of social media and e-commerce provides innovative opportunities for businesses to showcase their products directly to potential customers in a way that feels authentic and natural.
3. In-app Purchasing - The integration of purchase functionality within apps themselves can streamline the purchase experience and reduce buyer friction, creating new opportunities for businesses to capture impulse sales.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Apparel - Image-based shopping apps like Project September are tailor-made for the fashion and apparel industry, allowing customers to easily browse and purchase fashion items with minimal friction.
2. Social Media Marketing - Social media marketing firms can leverage e-commerce features like Project September's to directly connect brand influencers with their followers, creating new opportunities for monetization.
3. Mobile App Development - As in-app purchasing gains momentum, mobile app developers have an opportunity to take advantage of this trend by integrating purchasing options into their own offerings, thereby creating more seamless user experiences.