Business Manchester

Care2Care Hosts Christmas Charity Ball for Rob Burrow MND Centre Appeal

Business

News Desk

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25/11/2024

Care2Care Hosts Christmas Charity Ball for Rob Burrow MND Centre Appeal

Care2Care (Yorkshire) Ltd, a Bradford-based care provider, is hosting a glittering charity Christmas ball on Friday 29th November to raise funds for the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal in support of Leeds Hospital Charity.

The festive event will be held at the Coniston Hotel near Skipton and will include a conversation with special guests Stevie Ward, former Leeds Rhinos captain and close friend of Rob Burrow, and Marcus Stewart, the ex-Huddersfield Town footballer who is living with motor neurone disease and works to raise awareness of the condition.

An exciting auction of rare and exclusive items will be one of the evening’s key attractions, led by former rugby player Charlie Beech, who will serve as both auctioneer and compere.

Phill Lautman, Care2Care’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming everyone to our charity ball on 29th November. It’s 10 years since Care2Care was established and 2024 has been great for us, so if we can celebrate that in style while raising money for a good cause, it’s a brilliant way to wrap up the year.”

Rob Burrow, a rugby legend who played his entire career with Leeds Rhinos, was one of the most decorated players in Super League history. Following his motor neurone disease diagnosis in 2019, Rob and his former teammate Kevin Sinfield worked tirelessly to increase awareness and raise funds for the condition. Both players were awarded CBEs for their efforts, and Rob’s legacy continues following his passing earlier this year.

Care2Care specialises in providing tailored in-home care for adults across Bradford and West Yorkshire, with a particular focus on complex care. The company has experienced notable growth in demand for its services over the last two years.

The Care2Care Christmas Charity Ball will be held at the Coniston Hotel, a luxurious venue nestled in a 1,400-acre estate in the heart of the North Yorkshire countryside, complete with a fishing lake, shooting grounds, and a spa.

Michelle Wood, Corporate & Events Manager at the Coniston Hotel, said: “We’re delighted to be hosting this event at the Coniston Hotel to help raise funds for such a worthy cause that is close to so many people’s hearts; and we’re really looking forward to welcoming all the guests to what is set to be a great night!”

In addition to the special guest discussion and the auction, attendees can enjoy a three-course Christmas meal, entertainment, and dancing into the early hours. A raffle on the night will raise additional funds for the MS Society, while proceeds from the event will support the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease through Leeds Hospital Charity.

More details about the event, including ticket purchases, are available https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thefirmament/1444696. Alternatively, follow Care2Care on social media or contact the organiser at [email protected].

Residents evacuated as River Irwell bursts banks

News

Helen Greaney

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25/11/2024

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Residents evacuated as River Irwell bursts banks

Weekend downpours caused the River Irwell to burst its banks, leaving many residents in Ramsbottom having to evacuate their homes.

More than 100 flood alerts and warnings were issued around the UK, with winds of up to 82mph recorded across parts of the country on Saturday and Sunday.

Many residents and homes were affected in Ramsbottom, Radcliffe and areas of Bolton, and into Lancashire, with Haslingden Tesco having to shut due to flooded aisles.

There were treacherous conditions on Manchester Road on the border of Ramsbottom and Walmersley and many businesses closed because of the weather. The Irwell reached 2.33 metres near Stubbins.

At Nuttall Park in Ramsbottom (pictured below), fences were ripped down by the rain, causing damaging to fences and newly installed playground equipment. A hut, used to serve hot drinks and housing toilet facilities, was half underwater.

Councillor Gareth Staples-Jones thanked local residents for sending in reports of flooding, as he tried to keep the community updated on facebook. A clean-up operation was underway on Sunday.

Events across Greater Manchester and Lancashire were also cancelled, with 90s boy band East 17 set to turn on the Christmas lights in Rawtenstall. Switch-ons in Romiley and Alderley Edge were also cancelled, while Tatton Park’s Yuletide event was also closed.

Image credit: Jo Brickell Haggan

Understanding the importance of torque in the solar energy sector

Energy

News Desk

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22/11/2024

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Understanding the importance of torque in the solar energy sector

The solar energy sector has grown rapidly as renewable energy becomes a global priority. But achieving efficiency and longevity in solar installations depends on more than just technology – it hinges on precision in assembly.

A critical factor often overlooked in solar installations is torque, which plays a significant role in the stability, performance, and durability of solar systems. Here, we’ll explore why torque is essential in solar panel installation, solar tracker systems, and protecting installations from environmental stresses.

The role of torque in solar panel installation: Ensuring stability and efficiency

In solar installations, torque refers to the rotational force applied to bolts and fasteners, directly impacting panel stability. Correctly calibrated torque settings are essential to avoid problems like panel misalignment, which can decrease energy efficiency and cause damage over time.

Solar panels that aren’t properly secured may loosen, particularly in areas experiencing high winds or fluctuating temperatures, leading to higher maintenance costs and potential system failures.

Using torque-specific tools and technologies, such as a digital torque wrench from Crane Electronics, can help installers apply precise torque settings based on panel type and environmental factors. Such tools ensure uniformity in fastener tension, minimising the risks of loosening and misalignment. Proper torque management not only extends the life of solar panels but also optimises long-term energy output, benefiting both installers and end-users.

Why torque matters for solar trackers: Enhancing performance in dynamic environments

Solar trackers are specialised systems that follow the sun’s path to maximise energy capture. However, these systems operate in dynamic conditions, which requires robust construction to prevent misalignment and wear. Incorrect torque in these trackers can lead to accuracy issues, compromising the system’s ability to capture optimal sunlight and reducing overall energy production.

Torque settings are particularly crucial in tracker systems because they endure constant movement, temperature changes, and vibrations. Without proper torque calibration, trackers may experience increased wear, leading to costly repairs. Regular maintenance and torque adjustments are vital for ensuring that tracker systems perform accurately over time. Advanced tools, like torque sensors, can help monitor these systems continuously, helping solar farms achieve stable and reliable output even in challenging conditions.

Torque and wind load: Safeguarding solar installations against environmental stress

Environmental factors, especially wind loads, are a significant challenge for solar installations. In regions with high wind speeds, solar panels are subjected to additional stress that can affect their structural integrity. This is where precise torque settings become critical – torque acts as the ‘glue’ holding the system’s components together against external forces.

For example, coastal or high-altitude installations often require higher torque settings to withstand harsher weather conditions. With proper torque management, installers can counteract these stresses, ensuring safety and efficiency. Routine checks and adjustments based on environmental changes are recommended to maintain optimal torque in all conditions, keeping panels stable and operational.

As solar technology advances, understanding and applying correct torque becomes an integral part of solar energy efficiency. From installation stability and tracker accuracy to wind load resilience, precise torque management is essential for the durability and performance of solar systems. For companies and technicians in the solar energy sector, incorporating torque monitoring and maintenance practices is a valuable step in ensuring long-term operational success. Leveraging specialised tools from providers like Crane Electronics can significantly enhance accuracy in torque application, supporting safer and more efficient solar energy systems worldwide.

Police continue investigation following discovery of baby remains

News

Helen Greaney

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22/11/2024

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Police continue investigation following discovery of baby remains

Police are continuing to investigate following the discovery of a baby’s remains in Little Hulton.

The baby, named ‘Baby A’, was found on Ravenscraig Road, near Ashtons Field, by a passerby.

There is currently a crime scene in place and an increased presence of officers in the area.

At this stage, detectives are following several lines of enquiry, and working with local partner agencies to understand who this baby could be, how long they have been here, and how they have sadly died.

“If you have seen anyone in the area over the last few days, or know who the parents could be, please call us as soon as you can.

“We would like to thank the community for their tributes to Baby A and their support and compassion at this time. We are truly grateful.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log 1319 of 20/11/24. To remain anonymous, call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Mancunian apprentice overcomes adversity to win Young Builder of the Year award

Construction

Helen Greaney

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22/11/2024

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Mancunian apprentice overcomes adversity to win Young Builder of the Year award

An assistant civil engineer from Manchester has overcome significant personal challenges to win the Young Builder of the Year award at the annual Youthbuild UK award ceremony.

Zain Shafi (21) is currently undertaking his level six civil engineering degree apprenticeship, working with housebuilder, Keepmoat’s North West technical team

He plays an integral role in supporting the land buying process and assisting with various elements of work at the due diligence stage.

At age 15, Zain had to support his mum and three younger siblings, when he lost his dad. He managed both work and caregiving duties, often working night shifts at his home-based burger business and caring for his four-year-old brother, all while balancing an engineering course.

In 2021, Zain accepted a work experience placement with Keepmoat, which saw him commit to a 1.5-hour daily commute.

He completed the Government’s Kickstart Scheme and has now been offered full time employment with the housebuilder alongside his level six training and recent award win at the House of Commons on Wednesday night.

Zain said: “The on-the-job training at Keepmoat has been invaluable and significantly improved my knowledge and skills. It’s been brilliant to learn about new methods of construction and emerging technologies which are being utilised in the construction industry.

“I have worked hard to get where I am now, but I have always been determined to succeed for both myself and my family. It’s been difficult at times, spending long hours commuting, but my hard work has paid off with this fantastic award win! I’ve secured my dream job and I am attending university which is funded by Keepmoat.

“I really enjoy working within an encouraging and motivating environment at Keepmoat. I’m proud of where I am today both in my growing career and being a role model for my siblings, supporting my mother through a difficult time.”

Mark Dawson, technical director at Keepmoat, North West, said: “We are so proud of Zain’s progression and being named the Young Builder of the Year 2024, he has proven to be a great asset to the team and a very determined team player. His strong work ethic and outstanding attention to detail will take him far.”

Kärcher UK announces Manchester as location for groundbreaking new centre

Retail

Helen Greaney

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22/11/2024

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Kärcher UK announces Manchester as location for groundbreaking new centre

Kärcher UK, a leading provider of cleaning solutions, is thrilled to open its newest and largest Kärcher centre in Greater Manchester.

Building on the established Manchester-based Kärcher Hire business, the 18,122 square foot, two-acre site, will house a new Kärcher centre, as well as Kärcher Hire’s new headquarters.

Kärcher Hire rents an extensive range of the latest Kärcher equipment and has grown to become one of the largest cleaning equipment hire companies in the UK.

The company has outgrown its current location in Droylsden. Kärcher Hire is set to supercharge its operations, continuing to expand its client base across the UK.

The new Kärcher centre based at Unit 4, Oldham Broadway Business Park in Chadderton, will be run by centre manager Simon Barlow. It will include an impressive showroom that businesses and consumers alike are welcome to visit to discuss their cleaning headaches.

A major focus will be servicing professional businesses needs across the North West, including Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire.

With a distinctly Mancunian feel, the centre is set to offer unparalleled services to local businesses. The centre will provide full sales, lease, hire, maintenance, service and repair solutions, training facilities, showrooms with a variety of different floor types, and meeting rooms for businesses needing to discuss their cleaning needs.

The Kärcher team is also happy to visit business premises to complete site surveys, conduct product demonstrations and provide training – all designed to support companies in finding the right solutions to increase their operating efficiency. With an unrivalled range of products available for purchase, lease and hire, the Kärcher team will provide the best solution offering the best fit for any business, commercially, practically and financially.

The announcement of the new Kärcher centre comes as the cleaning solutions provider continues to evolve and grow its offering, in the face of a business landscape in which cleaning and hygiene is more important than ever before.

Matthew Gellie, head of rental at Kärcher UK, said: “Kärcher Hire has been working out of four depots across the UK for the last eight years, so we are thrilled to retain the dedicated staff from our Droylsden depot and to announce our headquarters in Chadderton. This expansion will undoubtedly supercharge our growth, doubling the size of our workshop and office space – giving us the ability to scale our operations.”

Simon Barlow, centre manager of the Manchester Kärcher centre, said: “We can’t wait to assist businesses across the North West in finding the right tools for their cleaning requirements. Here at Kärcher we are armed with the expertise and an impressive range of products and are well equipped to support you in improving your operational efficiencies.”

Appy Pie Design Empowers Black Friday & Cyber Monday Campaigns

Business

News Desk

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22/11/2024

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Appy Pie Design Empowers Black Friday & Cyber Monday Campaigns

Appy Pie Design, a top AI-powered graphic design platform, offers businesses and individuals a hassle-free way to create marketing materials for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Thanksgiving.

The platform’s user-friendly tools enable anyone, regardless of their design experience, to create polished Black Friday Banners and Posters that elevate their promotional efforts.

As the festive shopping season approaches, businesses are preparing for a surge in holiday campaigns. Appy Pie Design’s AI technology and prompt-based design system make it easy to create attractive Cyber Monday Banners and Posters quickly. With its library of customisable templates, users can tailor their designs to meet branding and campaign goals effortlessly.

Abhinav Girdhar, CEO of Appy Pie, emphasised the platform’s importance: “With the holiday season being a critical time for businesses, having the right tools to communicate your offers effectively is crucial.

“Appy Pie Design makes professional-quality design accessible, helping businesses engage their customers and drive sales during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Thanksgiving.”

Appy Pie Design also enables users to craft Thanksgiving Cards and Posters in just minutes, offering the convenience and versatility needed to stand out during this competitive season. As a result, it has become the go-to platform for businesses aiming to succeed in their holiday marketing campaigns.

How a community is preventing Mancunians from going hungry this winter

Community

Helen Greaney

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21/11/2024

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How a community is preventing Mancunians from going hungry this winter

This winter the Our Manchester Food Partnership (OMFP) is going above and beyond to make sure that no one in the city goes hungry.

The cost-of-living crisis has laid bare the difficulties many people face on a daily basis and as prices have continued to rise, it has been harder for working people to buy cheap and nutritious food.

The OMFP, which connects more than 100 partner organisations across Manchester, has to date, distributed 7,700 vouchers allowing access to a weekly shop via The Bread and Butter Thing which allows them a weekly shop for only £8.50.

Additionally, steps have been made to ensure that different cultural groups in Manchester also have access to food. Established through the Manchester Black and Minority Ethnic Network, The Rafiki Food Network has been engaging with communities throughout the city ensuring that a culturally appropriate food offer can be accessed.

What makes Rafiki unique is that they recognise that when residents and communities are hit by rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis it not only affects people financially, it also impacts a way of life. The cost-of-living crisis has made access to culturally appropriate food more difficult as the price of some essential cultural foods has risen significantly.

In addition, this winter, additional funding has also been made available to help organisations access stock through key partnerships with Fareshare and Feeding Britain, and, paying for white goods, professional memberships, training and infrastructure items.

Joanna Midgley, deputy leader of Manchester City Council said: “The increase in the price of food is just one of the ways in which the cost-of-living crisis has made the lives of ordinary people that much harder.

“Through the OMFP we hope to make a tangible and important impact on people’s lives, ensuring that they can access cheap and nutritious food throughout the winter months.

“This is an ongoing project and if people are able to help either by donating food or volunteering their time it could make a lasting impact to our communities.”

Atiha Chaudry, founder of the Rafiki Food Network and director of The Manchester BME Network said: “The Rafiki Food Network was set up by the Manchester BME Network alongside Fareshare, as well as more than 30 ethnic community groups who help relieve food poverty.

“Focusing on providing culturally and appropriate food, not usually available through the usual food support systems and, due to the cost-of-living crisis the cost of some culturally appropriate foods and ingredients has risen, in some cases three times higher than usual.

“The work we do is vital in supporting communities and families who depend on us to help them through this incredibly difficult period.”

Our guide to the best Christmas gifts for women

Retail

Helen Greaney

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21/11/2024

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Our guide to the best Christmas gifts for women

“I don’t really need anything” and “You spend your money on yourself” are not answers anyone wants to hear when the question is, “What would you like for Christmas?”.

If you’re looking for the perfect present for your mum, sister, aunty or gran, and they don’t have a clue what they want, check out our great gifts round-up for inspiration!

Wonderland Cocktails Party Pack

If she likes a tipple, she will love BrewDog Distilling Co.’s Wonderland Cocktails. This awesome party pack contains 10 top quality cocktails that guarantee that perfect serve every time, made using BrewDog’s acclaimed spirits.

The range includes a Classic Margarita, Cosmo, Strawberry Daiquiri, Watermelon Margarita, Whisky Sour, Espresso Martini and Passionfruit Martini that are SHAKE cocktails leaving a little extra space at the top of the can for a long-lasting crème on the drink and higher alcohol content. The Classic Mojito, Long Island Iced Tea, Cantarito Paloma are CHILL cocktails, ready to serve from the can as a longer drink.

Available: BrewDog, £29.90 for a 10-pack

Incense sticks

If she’s a home bird, she will love this fabulous collection of 30 incense sticks in honour of the gifts from the Magi. The three kings brought gifts of priceless Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. In this box, you’ll find 10 sticks of each amazing scent.

Myrrh – a rich, bitter-sweet, deep resinous burn, this is a one-of-a-kind scent, Frankincense – classic Church incense made with natural frankincense Boswellia Serrata resin for a rich, woody and spicy aroma and Nag Champa Gold offers a traditional artisanal blend, Nag Champa, with twangs of Jasmine, Sandalwood and Ylang-Ylang.

Just delightful and perfect for any lounge or bedroom.

Available from templeofincense.com, £20

Sweet treats

Mademoiselle Macaron’s Luxury Christmas Macaron Box is the ultimate gift for foodies, with beautiful festive flavours including a combination of Orange and Cranberry, Mince Pie, Chocolate Mint/After Eight, Black Forest, Caramel Gingerbread, Pear and Chestnut. These tasty macarons, the brainchild of Rachel Hanretty who was taught at Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse’s cookery school, are handcrafted using the finest ingredients.

Incredibly luxurious, the box will be delivered in exquisite black packaging with a gold embossed sleeve decorated with beautiful, festive Mademoiselle Macaron illustrations.

Available: mademoisellemacaron.co.uk, from £16

Earley+Daughters luxury candle

If she wants a plastic-free, sustainable gift that smells good too, an Early+Daughters luxury candle could be a winner.

The wax they use to make their candles is sustainably grown, biodegradable and non toxic, while the gorgeous fragrance oils are all cruelty free. What’s more, all of the packaging, is recycled or upcycled.

All their suppliers are UK based, small, family owned businesses and they pour in small batches to prevent waste, and to ensure that the quality is second to none. With a burn time of 35 hours, the Midwinter candle is glorious choice with a refreshing peppermint and pine needles smell.

Available: earleyanddaughters.co.uk from £24

Traditional Family Basket

Make this Christmas one to remember with a luxury hamper the whole family can enjoy.

123 Hampers’ Traditional Family Basket is brimming with festive food and drink to make it the centre of celebrations. Give her the gift of a warming glass of Shiraz or enjoy a non-alcoholic mulled winter punch with all the flavours of the most magical time of the year.

There’s also Christmas puddings made by Valley Bakery, pudding-flavoured popcorn and melt-in-the-mouth shortbread shapes. For those with a savoury tooth, chilli and garlic crackers paired with tomato, basil and garlic cheese makes a perfect festive snack.

Delicious jam and marmalade and a gift box of chocolate domes are sure to get anyone in the Christmas spirit. For children there’s the chance to decorate delicious gingerbread tree biscuits.

Available: 123-hampers.co.uk, £125

Beauty box

Is she after beauty products but likes to try new things? The Beguile Beauty Box, which contains four or five full-sized popular products, is the perfect gift.

A beauty profile is completed by the customer and products are tailored and customised to them, and they can then enjoy a monthly subscription. Products include top brands such as Chanel and Bobby Brown.

Available: beguilebeautybox.com, from £35.99

Sleep Intense – Discovery Set

If she needs a little help to get to sleep, this could be her saviour. This lovely selection of natural bath & body care products are infused with precious Ayurveda WonderHerbs & pure Aromatic Essential Oils to intensely pacify the senses, promoting dreamy restful sleep.

Comforting and grounding Neroli Blossom helps take away daily stress and gently unwind, while exotic Ylang Ylang calms and clarifies mid and body.

Products are cruelty, sulphate and paraben-free.

Available: spaceylon.co.uk, from £18.75

Perfect PJs

Who doesn’t want fresh new PJs for Christmas? When they‘ve been designed by more than 7,000 women, are made without any waste, use only sustainable fabrics and do good in the world by funding children to learn to read and write and paying garment workers fairly, what’s not to love?

The new Unfolded PJ collection is back. Available in two styles and four colourways, each comes with a matching padded eye mask, every pair supports a child in India in education for one month. Whoever buys them is bound to end up on Santa’s nice list.

Available: Unfolded, £45 with free P&P

Sea change wine

Sea Change is making waves with its award-winning, ethically sourced, eco-friendly wine directly supporting global ocean conservation projects.

The winemaker is committed to creating exceptional drinks and caring for oceans. Each bottle includes a hand-drawn illustration of a marine animal impacted by plastic pollution.

Sea Change is keen to be part of the solution and has incredibly innovative packaging. They’ve removed the plastic wraps around their bottle tops, use natural corks, and use labels made from paper from certified sustainable forests and grape waste. With red, wine and rose on offer, she will be spoilt for choice.

Available: seachangewine.com, from £19.49

Pregnancy pillow

Expectant mama? Get her the dreamgenii® Pregnancy Pillow. It boasts a unique patented design for support and feed, helping her get a restful, comfortable night’s sleep. The super-soft 100% jersey cotton covers provide the ultimate cosiness as its unique number 7-shape naturally encourages left lateral sleeping (the optimal foetal position) to support the health of both mum-to-be and baby.

Its patented design moulds around her and your bump, whilst also supporting her back and knees, as pregnancy progresses and sleeping becomes more difficult.

Available: dreamgenii.com, from £29.99

Racing Club shares

If you want an exciting gift, how about giving her a share in a racecourse? Racing Club has shares available from just £25, or you could buy one of their three-horse packages for £125.

Racing Club is a syndicate that offers people the chance to experience racehorse ownership at a fraction of the price of owning a horse outright. Racing Club members can enjoy plenty of fantastic benefits including table visits, owner badges to see the horse run and the chance to attend events in their hospitality boxes at various venues across the country.

There’s even merchandise to match, including scarves, socks and even a bespoke Racing Club gin!

Available: Racingclub.com, from £25

Virtual Try-On APIs by Appy Pie Endpoint: Revolutionising E-Commerce

News Desk

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21/11/2024

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Virtual Try-On APIs by Appy Pie Endpoint: Revolutionising E-Commerce

Appy Pie Endpoint, a trusted name in AI-powered APIs, has launched its innovative Virtual Try-On APIs, aiming to revolutionise customer engagement for e-commerce retailers.

The suite, which includes the Appy Pie Virtual Try-On API and Kolors Virtual Try-On API, equips retailers with the capability to offer customers a virtual try-on experience. By enabling shoppers to visualise products in real time, these APIs create an interactive and immersive online shopping environment that enhances buying confidence and bridges the gap between online and physical retail.

As consumer expectations for interactive and personalised shopping grow, Appy Pie Endpoint’s Virtual Try-On APIs offer a solution that brings products such as fashion items, accessories, jewellery, makeup, and home furnishings to life. Powered by cutting-edge AI and augmented reality, these APIs provide an engaging and precise experience tailored to individual customer needs.

Abhinav Girdhar, Founder and CEO of Appy Pie, remarked:
“Appy Pie Endpoint is committed to making advanced technology accessible for all businesses, especially in a fast-evolving e-commerce landscape. Our Virtual Try-On APIs are designed to help retailers offer the next level of online shopping experience.
We believe these APIs will not only increase customer engagement but will also redefine how customers interact with e-commerce platforms.”

These APIs are designed for e-commerce retailers across industries, from fashion and beauty to home decor. Customisable and seamlessly integrated into existing platforms, Appy Pie’s Virtual Try-On APIs ensure retailers can adapt to the ever-changing demands of the modern consumer.