Bridging the gap - A feasibility study of a public showroom

Abstract: Purpose: To examine whether there is an interest in a public showroom for Swedish consumers and fashion e-retailers and how it could benefit them. Design/methodology/approach: Qualitative interviews with two Swedish fashion e-retailers were conducted in order to understand if there was an interest in a public showroom amongst the chosen companies. A survey with 200 participants was carried out with students from the Swedish School of Textiles, to get an understanding of their e-shopping behavior. Findings: It was found that there is an interest in implementing a public showroom. According to the survey results, a majority were in favor of trying on a product before purchasing it. The fashion e-retailers that were interviewed thought that it would be of interest if it would function more as a temporary pop-up solution. Practical implications: The findings are of relevance for fashion e-retailers that are potentially interested in an additional marketing and communication channel for their internal brands. Originality/value: As there was no research regarding Swedish fashion e-retailers attitude towards a public showroom, this thesis contributes with new findings to the academics. Furthermore, it can be used as a guideline to fashion e-retailers in the event of opening of a public showroom.