Harper Dennis Hobbs (HDH) has announced plans to become what it describes as “the first strategic retail consultant in the UK” for companies looking to expand into the metaverse.

The consultancy plans to open a new arm in its retail division that will focus on how retailers can operate in the third generation of the internet – widely known as Web 3.0.

A number of high-profile retailers, including Nike, P&G, boohoo, and Vans have publicised their move into the metaverse over the past few months.

"The pandemic has played a role in encouraging retailers to embrace change and look to adopt new methods for growing sales and brand awareness,” said James Ebel, chief executive of HDH. “This has led to many more retailers considering creating a presence in the metaverse and there are even some ‘early adopters’.

“As retail consultants, traditionally our services have come in the form of securing physical locations for retailers. However, ingrained within that is our understanding of what works for a brand, its strategy and its products and how a particular location can best help the brand achieve its growth targets."

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