Soofia Fatima
Marketing executive @Stylib
For architects, designers, and contractors, searching through distributor catalogues can feel overwhelming. Thousands of SKUs, countless variations, and inconsistent product descriptions often make the process slow and frustrating. Traditional keyword search doesn’t always help if you don’t know the exact name of a product; finding it can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
That’s where AI-powered product finders are transforming the experience.
The challenge with traditional catalogue search
Distributor catalogues are often structured around supplier terminology, not client intent. That means:
You type in “acoustic panel,” but the results show “sound-absorbing board.”
You search by brand name, but miss suitable alternatives.
You filter by category, but overlook cross-category products that might fit better.
The result? Wasted time, missed opportunities, and a poor user experience.
What an AI product finder does differently
An AI product finder understands search beyond keywords. It can interpret the intent behind a query and deliver relevant results even if the wording or format doesn’t match perfectly.
Here’s how it works:
Semantic search – Finds products by meaning, not just exact words.
Attribute matching – Surfaces results based on key specifications (size, finish, performance).
Image search – Allows users to upload a photo and discover visually similar products.
Recommendation logic – Suggests related products, alternatives, or compatible items.
Instead of scrolling through irrelevant results, users get a curated shortlist of options that actually match their needs.
Why efficient catalogue search matters
For distributors and suppliers, efficient catalogue navigation is more than convenience, it’s business critical:
Faster decision-making – Architects and contractors can move projects forward without delays.
Higher engagement – Users spend more time exploring your catalogue when it’s easy to search.
Increased specifications – The smoother the search, the more likely a product gets selected.
Reduced support load – Fewer back-and-forth emails asking, “Do you have something like this?”
Smarter distributor catalogue search
The future of catalogues is intelligent, not static. With AI product finders, suppliers and distributors can finally bridge the gap between complex product data and the way users actually search.
SearchTech by Stylib brings this capability directly to your catalogue so clients can find what they need instantly, whether they start with words, specs, or images.
With visual search built into your website, clients can upload a reference image- a texture, colour, or product photo and instantly see the most visually similar items from your catalogue. It’s a faster, more intuitive way for architects and designers to explore your range without relying on perfect keywords.
SearchTech understands what people mean, not just what they type. Whether a user searches for “warm-toned outdoor tile” or “eco-certified wall panel,” the system interprets intent and delivers accurate, relevant results, even when product titles or tags don’t match exactly.
SearchTech integrates directly into your site, using your existing product data. There’s no need for redirects or external logins, just a fast, branded search experience that keeps users on your site, engaged, and closer to specifying your products.
