New shopping app MyStreet aims to 'help the high street'

By

Nigel TAYLOR

Published
Jan 27, 2021

At a time when high streets are struggling like no other, any help to link stores with consumers should be welcome. So MyStreet is a “first-of-its-kind” app that claims to do precisely that.

It uses artificial intelligence and computer vision technology to connect independent retailers with like-minded consumers “based on their interests, style and purchase behaviour”.

Specifically, the app has been launched to help small businesses “adapt to changing consumer shopping habits and support their online sales strategy at a time when the high street faces unprecedented challenges”.

The app enables those independent stores to create their own virtual shopfront and matches the preferences of shoppers across the UK to retailers who stock similar products and services, “helping business owners reach like-minded consumers beyond their usual catchment area".

Consequently, MyStreet also allows consumers to discover some of the best independent retailers across the UK and “build their own personalised virtual high street featuring their favourite stores”.

Richard Johnson, co-founder, said: “We’ve been developing MyStreet over the past year as a way of helping address the UK’s high street decline, and we know from our conversations with independents that they need support now to boost their digital presence and bridge the gap between online and offline”.

Johnson notes that well as connecting independent retailers with customers, “MyStreet facilitates direct communication with shoppers via in-app messaging and live streams”. 

He added: “Expertise at the till sets high street retailers apart and the app will allow store owners to provide a personalised service including giving advice, reassurance on common themes like fit and materials, and discuss unique offers – giving less reasons for returns and facilitating lasting relationships".

Meanwhile, a dedicated app for retailers, MyStreet Pro, also allows stores to list their products and services free of charge and “complements and integrates seamlessly into existing e-commerce platforms". 

The company said retailers will receive tech support to create a profile and get their products online “quickly and easily, with as little disruption to their day-to-day operations as possible”.