Augmented Reality in Employee Training: Sappi

Sappi wanted to reinvigorate employee training around its rebranded Verve product line. Traditional methods such as long slide decks and passive e-learning were no longer effective. The challenge was to make training engaging and memorable, encourage a real connection with the Verve rebrand, and drive repeat participation across a global workforce.

The Approach:

We designed a six-week gamified learning journey using augmented reality in employee training. The program transformed training from a passive requirement into an interactive, mobile-first experience that employees wanted to return to.
Key elements included:

Short-form videos that delivered knowledge in quick, digestible bites.
AR quizzes tied to virtual assets that rewarded correct answers.
Daily touchpoints that reinforced learning and encouraged consistent engagement.
Real-world rewards that linked training success to tangible prizes.
Progress tracking via a digital wallet to show individual achievements.

This approach combined gamification for education with immersive AR experiences, creating both immediate engagement and long-term retention.

The Results?

The campaign delivered measurable impact:

±8000 virtual assets collected across six weeks
Engagement reached 245% above the original KPI
Participation sustained consistently over the full program
Training transformed into an activity employees wanted to return to

By gamifying compliance and using augmented reality in employee training, Sappi achieved lasting engagement and stronger brand connection with the Verve rebrand.

“Working with Inner Reality on the Sappi Verve training experience was a refreshing and rewarding process. The team brought creative, tech-driven thinking that transformed what could have been a traditional training exercise into something genuinely fun and engaging. The use of AR and gamification helped us capture our team’s attention and drive strong, sustained participation over six weeks. From the easy registration process to the interactive quizzes and real-world rewards, the campaign was designed to both educate and excite—and it delivered on both fronts. What stood out most was the IRL team’s collaborative spirit, attention to detail, and problem-solving. Their approach made a real difference in bringing our brand to life internally. We’re thrilled with the results and look forward to future collaborations!”

“Partnering with Inner Reality on the Sappi Verve campaign was a seamless and creatively energizing experience. They brought innovative ideas to the table—particularly with AR and gamification—that elevated the campaign beyond traditional training formats. The result was a truly engaging, high-impact internal experience that resonated with Sappi’s team and aligned beautifully with the refreshed brand direction. Throughout the process, the IRL team was responsive, proactive, and solution-oriented. Their ability to collaborate effectively across agency and client made a real difference in the project’s success. Looking forward to working with them again soon!”

“Working with Inner Reality on the Sappi Verve campaign was a standout experience. Their creative approach brought a fresh and engaging edge to the internal product education process, transforming what’s often a routine task into something genuinely exciting. The use of AR, gamified learning, and real-world rewards helped boost engagement in a meaningful way. The IRL team worked closely with us throughout, always open to feedback and quick to find smart solutions when needed. It was a true team effort, and their professionalism and collaborative energy made a big impact. I’d be happy to work with them again on future campaigns!”