Alpen Official Online Store Introduces "AI Shopping Agent" Enabling In-Store-Like Consultation and Purchase Experience Online

Alpen Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture; President and CEO: Atsushi Mizuno), a sports equipment retailer, will introduce the "AI Shopping Agent," utilizing Firework Japan Inc.'s new solution, on the product pages for Adidas Japan, Inc. (hereinafter "Adidas") running and soccer items on its official online store, Alpen Online. The introduction of this service is the first of its kind in the sports equipment e-commerce industry in Japan.

■ Eliminating the Hassle of Information Gathering Across Multiple Sites to Maximize Customer Experience

Traditional e-commerce product pages often lacked sufficient information or made it difficult for customers to find the necessary details. This led customers to spend time checking information on manufacturer-direct sites or social media, disrupting their purchasing experience.

With the introduction of this service, customers can access required information more concisely by utilizing the AI Shopping Agent and video content within the product pages. This enables them to complete a satisfying purchase experience on the site with confidence.

■ For Confident and Unhesitating Online Shopping: Three New Experiences Offered by the "AI Shopping Agent"

On the Adidas product pages within Alpen Online, customers can now enjoy a personalized experience, much like consulting with a specialist staff member in a physical store.

1. "Instant Consultation" Available 24/7

A single button on the product page activates the "AI Shopping Agent," initiating a chat-style dialogue. This provides a consultation experience, akin to being at a physical store's service counter, anytime, anywhere.

2. "Personalized Recommendations" to Resolve Uncertainty

The AI responds to questions tailored to each customer's level and objectives, such as "Are these shoes suitable for marathon beginners?" or "Are these soccer cleats for artificial turf?" The AI acts like a store associate, offering optimal information aligned with individual styles to alleviate shopping anxieties.

3. Product Understanding Support Utilizing Manufacturer-Provided Information

This service does not pick up unverified information. Based on product data provided by the manufacturer, it clearly organizes and answers customer questions regarding product characteristics and key selection points. Customers can smoothly confirm necessary information online, just as they would receive in-person service at a store, deepening their understanding of the product and allowing for confident decision-making.

■ Outlook for Service Expansion

In online shopping, particularly for sports gear, the anxiety of "I don't know if it suits me" often becomes a barrier to purchase. We have created an environment where customers can more easily understand product information provided by manufacturers through technology. Starting with this initiative, Alpen aims to expand the introduction of the "AI Shopping Agent" to various brands beyond Adidas and to other sports and outdoor categories. By building partnerships with diverse brands, we will promote the "standardization of AI-driven purchasing experiences" in Japan's sports e-commerce market.