The best way to prepare yourself for the future is to start thinking about it right now. This also goes for the world of eCommerce and online shopping. While thinking along these lines, it’s hard to deny that purchasing from the web has become second nature to many of us. And as a well-informed online buyer, it is imperative to be on top of the amazing trends that will shape eCommerce over the next 2-5 years.
1. The Rise of Social Media Marketplaces | One of the Best Ecommerce Trends
Platforms such as Facebook Marketplace, TikTok Shop, and other C2C websites are the new alternatives to eCommerce websites and digital stores.
Learn more: Social commerce sales to reach USD 2.9 trillion by 2026
2. Reduction in Trips to the Grocery Store | Everyone is Coming Online
The overwhelming response received by companies like Groffers, Big Basket, Instacart, and other online grocers is there for all to see. People are not visiting Kirana and grocery stores as much as they used to. And this is why every retailer across the world is growing its digital presence as per the ecommerce trends; right from JioMart in India to Walmart in the United States.
Learn more: Digital grocery industry trends and forecast 2023 (insiderintelligence.com)
3. Ethical Decisions to Drive Buyers | ECommerce Trend of Ethical Buying
Reusable packaging, biodegradable polythene bags, and eco-friendly shipping/logistics are no longer buzzwords. What’s more, buyers are willing to pay extra for such environment-friendly measures. The adoption of “Environmental, Social, & Governance” frameworks and standards by organizations all over the world has accelerated the influence of ethics on eCommerce.
Learn more: One in two buyers believe eCommerce is harmful to the environment
4. Buy Online and Pickup in Store | Time is Money
Retailers like Target, DMart, Apple, Bloomingdale’s, among others, want to provide customers the best of both worlds: brick-and-mortar stores and online shopping. This strategy enables them to maintain and grow customer loyalty, bank on cross-selling, and cut down on shipping costs/hassles.
At the same time, buyers enjoy the convenience of choosing their pickup location & time, are saved from the pitfalls of erroneous delivery, and can get their post-purchase queries resolved in person at the store.
Learn more: The Worldwide Buy Online Pick Up in Store Industry is (globenewswire.com)
5. No Compromise with On-Time Delivery | Timing shall always remain an ECommerce Trend
With so many stores and platforms to shop from, buyers are relying more than ever on “delivery commitments and promises” to filter their choices. This has put on immense pressure on retailers to deliver on time, if not sooner. While same-day delivery is a “nice to have” at the moment, buyers will no longer settle for anything less in the next 2-3 years,
6. User-Generated Content | Main Aspect of Online Selling
A seamless online shopping experience entails no-nonsense, authentic product reviews from fellow buyers. Fake testimonials and AI-generated content are intolerable. Moreover, customer awareness is at an all-time high. People can sniff out marketing gimmicks and false promises when deciding on their purchases.
Consumers now crave word-of-mouth and recommendations from friends, family, and genuine connections for any buying decisions. Fancy advertisements, eye-catching banners, and celebrity endorsements are losing their charm and grasp.
Learn more: Less than 50% of people find ads compelling
7. Live Shopping Events | Ecommerce Trends to Look For
A large number of retailers and brands are rooting for live-streaming events for deals and discounts. Think of it this way: Apple starts a 10-minute live video on Instagram. You get to see amazing deals on Apple’s website as soon as the live session starts. The deals vanish at the 10-minute mark.
Learn more: Livestream eCommerce to touch $35 billion by 2024
Ecommerce is here to stay. With the advancements in technology and entrepreneurs going all guns blazing on creativity and innovation, the very idea of buying online is snowballing into something spectacular. Everyone is trying and using these ecommerce trends for better reach.