Zappar and Auki have won In-Store Experience Innovation of the Year at the Retail Tech Breakthrough Awards for Gotu, our assistive navigation solution that helps people find their way around retail stores, regardless of their level of vision. It’s a simple idea, but it tackles something retail has never really solved.
Fixing one of retail’s everyday problems
For many people, finding a product in-store is straightforward. But for shoppers with sight loss, it can be a real barrier. Layouts change, signage is visual, and staff aren’t always available. What should be quick and simple can become slow and frustrating.
Gotu is designed to change that.
Clear directions, no extra friction
Gotu gives shoppers real-time, turn-by-turn audio guidance inside stores. Think clear, practical directions you can follow as you move, not vague prompts.
It works without apps, beacons, or complex hardware. Shoppers simply scan an Accessible QR (AQR) code using their phone and get guided through the store to the exact product.
From a single shelf to an entire store
The system uses Accessible QR codes placed throughout a store and connects them via spatial mapping. Teams can map a space, set key destinations like aisles or service desks, and update things as layouts change.
It’s quick to pilot, easy to roll out, and designed to scale from a single location to full estates. No heavy installs. No ongoing hardware maintenance.
A better experience for more people
While built with blind and low-vision users in mind, the impact is wider. First-time visitors can find their way more easily. Large stores feel less overwhelming. And staff spend less time giving directions. That’s what this award recognises. Not just accessibility, but a better in-store experience overall.
Because improving retail isn’t always about adding more. Sometimes it’s about making the space itself easier to use.
Dave MatherHead of Marketing