Moonpig, recognised as the largest online card retailer in the UK, has introduced an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) feature designed to mimic the sentiment often conveyed through handwritten notes, eliminating the need for traditional penmanship. The new tool, revealed this month, enables users to create a distinctive digital font based on their own handwriting, which can be stored in their account for future messages on cards.
The development of this technology has taken a year, addressing a significant challenge faced by many customers. According to Nikhil Raithatha, CEO of Moonpig, “Handwriting has always been a big barrier for people who think e-cards are not personal enough.” He further explained, “Our new tool bridges the gap between the ease of online shopping and the warmth of heartfelt, handwritten letters.”
The process involves customers crafting their personalised font by writing out every letter of the alphabet—both uppercase and lowercase—in their typical handwriting style. After submission, the technology processes these handwritten samples, generating a custom digital typeface that users can later apply to any card.
Founded in 2000 by Nick Jenkins, Moonpig was listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2021. Under the guidance of Raithatha, who has been at the helm since 2018, the company has enhanced its focus on technology and data-driven solutions aimed at tailoring customer experiences. Earlier this year, Moonpig incorporated ChatGPT into its platform, enabling users to generate text content for various occasions, whether it be a whimsical poem or a heartfelt condolence message.
Noteworthy is Raithatha's observation that men are “twice as likely” as women to engage with the AI-powered text feature. “It is used a lot on Valentine’s Day, but we are also seeing a huge rise in the use of AI for condolence cards because many customers find it difficult to express such sentiments,” he stated.
Moonpig has indicated that further AI innovations are on the horizon, including computer-generated stickers expected to be introduced by the end of the year. However, the company has not been without challenges. It recently reported an interim pre-tax loss of £33.3 million for the six months leading up to October, contrasting with a profit of £18.9 million in the same period the previous year. Despite a 3.8% rise in revenues to £158 million, bolstered by a 10% increase in the Moonpig brand, the performance of its Experiences division has lagged. This segment, acquired for £124 million two-and-a-half years prior, was recently written down by £56.7 million.
Despite this setback, Raithatha maintains confidence in the trajectory of AI-driven personalisation. He envisions a future where online card ordering does not compromise the intimate essence of handwriting. As the holiday season approaches, users now have access to a modern, technologically advanced option to enhance their digital greetings while retaining a personal touch—all without needing to put pen to paper.
Source: Noah Wire Services