[Co-creating the 'Future' of Physical Stores with Gen Z x AI] BEEATS Launches Industry-Academia Collaboration Project with Three Universities

BEEATS, a company dedicated to co-creating brand experiences in the retail space, has announced the launch of the 'Next-Gen Store Planning & AI Creative Practice' program. Running from May 2026 to February 2027, the project is a collaboration with Aoyama Gakuin University, Sugino Fashion College, and Kanagawa University, under the supervision of Filgate Co., Ltd.

This project combines BEEATS' expertise in physical store marketing and spatial design with the flexible thinking of students to explore the possibilities of next-generation store experiences using AI tools.

As e-commerce becomes more prevalent, the role of physical stores is being questioned. Stores are increasingly required not only as places of purchase, but as spaces for brand empathy and social media-worthy moments. BEEATS believes that by integrating the sensibility of Gen Z students with rapidly evolving generative AI, they can expand the possibilities of in-store experiences.

The program, which kicked off in May 2026, involves long-term lectures and workshops featuring guest instructors, such as Park Ha-min, CBO of the fashion platform 'nugu.'

Students will engage in five practical steps:
1. Investigate: Studying mechanisms of 'SNS transmission hubs' popular with Gen Z.
2. Plan: Designing next-gen store experiences using AI tools.
3. Create: Producing graphics and POP using AI.
4. Test: Validating reactions through panel exhibits at university festivals.
5. Challenge: Proposing polished plans at a final presentation.

Following the final presentation in February 2027, outstanding ideas will aim for social implementation as promotional projects in real retail environments.