Real ROI in Virtual Worlds: The Future of Digital Marketing in India

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  By Gujju Ticks

  19 August, 2025

Introduction: 

The internet is changing again. First, websites were the main space for marketing. Later, social media like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube became popular. Now a new digital shift is coming — the metaverse.

For Indian businesses, from small shops to big brands, the metaverse can open new ways to reach customers. But many people ask:
“Can we really make money from marketing in virtual worlds?”
“Or is this just another technology trend?”

In this blog, we’ll explore:

• What the metaverse is
• Why it is important for marketers in India
• How to measure ROI (Return on Investment)
• Practical strategies for brands
• Real examples from India and abroad

What Is the Metaverse?

The metaverse is like a 3D version of the internet. Instead of just looking at screens, people can enter digital spaces. You can walk in a virtual mall, attend a music concert, play games, or even shop — all online but in 3D.

It works with technologies like:

• Virtual Reality (VR) headsets
• Augmented Reality (AR) apps
• Blockchain & NFTs (digital ownership)
• AI for smart experiences

Example: Imagine sitting at home in Surat, but entering a VR mall where you can try clothes on your avatar and then order them to your house. That is the power of the metaverse.

Why Indian Marketers Should Care About the Metaverse

India has one of the largest internet user bases in the world. Young people here quickly adopt new apps, games, and platforms. This makes India a strong market for the metaverse.

Benefits of metaverse marketing:

1. Higher Engagement – People spend more time in virtual events than watching ads.
2. New Business Models – Brands can sell digital items like NFTs, event tickets, or avatar accessories.
3. Better Storytelling – Instead of reading about a product, customers can experience it.                Example: explore a new flat virtually before buying.
4. Early Advantage – Companies that start now will lead, just like the first brands on social media.

Real ROI: How to Measure Success in the Metaverse

Marketers worry about ROI — will money spent bring returns? In the metaverse, ROI can be measured with these points:

• Time Spent – If users stay in your virtual store for 15–20 minutes, that shows strong engagement.
• Conversions – Actual purchases of products or digital items.
• Event Participation – How many people attended your virtual launch or concert.
• NFT Sales – Income from digital collectibles.
• Brand Awareness – Surveys can show if people remember your brand better after an immersive event.

Example: Gucci sold virtual sneakers in the metaverse, making millions. This shows real ROI is possible.

Strategies for Indian Brands

1. Virtual Showrooms

Car companies like Tata Motors can create VR showrooms where people explore cars and book test drives.

2. Digital Events

Bollywood promotions can happen inside virtual theatres where fans meet actors’ avatars.

3. NFTs as Loyalty Cards

Restaurants in Ahmedabad or Mumbai can give NFT passes to loyal customers, which unlock special discounts.

4. Gaming Partnerships

Since gaming is very popular in India, brands can advertise inside games. For example, a cold drink brand can set up virtual stalls inside a cricket game.

5. Education & Training

Indian EdTech companies can build VR classrooms where students join lectures in a digital IIT or IIM campus.

Challenges for Indian Businesses

Of course, this is not easy. Some issues include:

• High Cost of Technology – VR headsets are still expensive.
• Internet Speed – Rural areas may struggle with metaverse apps.
• Regulations – NFTs and crypto payments are not fully clear in India.
• User Adoption – Older people may find VR confusing.

But costs are falling, and just like smartphones, metaverse devices will also become affordable over time.

Examples of Metaverse Marketing

• Nike built Nike land in Roblox, a popular game, where people tried and bought virtual sneakers.
• Coca-Cola sold NFT collectibles that gave fans special experiences.
• In India, Mahindra & Mahindra launched a vehicle in a virtual environment, getting huge media attention.

These show that ROI from metaverse marketing is already possible.

The Future of Metaverse Marketing in India

Experts say the global metaverse economy could reach $5 trillion by 2030. For India, this is like the early days of mobile internet.

Future trends may include:

• AI Avatars speaking in Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, etc., to help customers.
• UPI Payments in Metaverse for easy shopping.
• Digital Marketplaces where Indian fashion, jewellery, or handicrafts are sold globally.

Conclusion: Time to Take the First Step

The metaverse is not just science fiction. It is a real marketing platform with opportunities for ROI.

For Indian businesses, the smart way is to start small:

• Host a simple VR event
• Launch an NFT collection
• Test a digital showroom

Just like Facebook and Instagram marketing started small and then became a must-have, the metaverse will follow the same journey.

The future of digital marketing in India will not just be on screens, but inside virtual worlds. Brands that act early will stay ahead.