The advent of the Internet changed the retail landscape and in 2018 brands really harnessed their online presence. The end of the year is not only a great time to reflect on what business practices worked well for you, but to also consider what methods you’d like to launch or revamp. Here are some retail trends that are predicted to make the retail experience easier for consumers and more profitable for you.
Customization
The ability to customize products to your liking was a huge lucrative trend last year that sees no sign of slowing down in the future. The ability to customize artwork, what product you can put the artwork on, or mixing and matching of materials gives consumers a sense of control over their purchases which can in turn prove lucrative for retailers. For example, being able to customize not only the design, but the embroidered trim of a customizable printed patch is a strategic incentive for customers to purchase because they feel they’re getting exactly what they want.
Experiences
Pop-ups were a huge success for many retailers in 2018, and 2019 will see that experience elevated. Instead of Pop-ups, brands will focus on creating immersive experiences that focus on a specific product and what it’s capable of. This can take the form of makeover or styling experiences with beauty products, demos for housewares, or even product sampling. Experiences are useful for brands because they are easily promotable on social media, and target specific interests of consumers.
Seamlessness
It was once thought that online shopping would eliminate the need for brick and mortar stores, but today that doesn’t seem the case. In fact, most retailers have been thriving in both realms. 2019 will see the retailers bridging this gap even more with more seamless retail experiences. By using technology, retailers can make it easier for customers to find products, expand product knowledge, and more efficient shopping. A seamless shopping experience also means that customers can order something online to pick up at a store or vice versa, which can again create the sense that consumers are purchasing and receiving exactly what they need when they need it.
Sustainability
With the advent of technology, it’s easy to do research and see statistics of our environmental impact, and for a lot of consumers supporting a brand that is actively taking measures to be more eco-conscious is a huge selling feature. This doesn’t just mean switching out plastic bags for paper, it can also mean less packaging materials or more eco-friendly initiatives in-store too (such as using reusable styrene name badges for employees instead of paper or plastic ones). More brands aren’t just trying to reduce waste but are advertising how they’re sustainable practices can make a positive impact and change. Going green and being environmentally conscious doesn’t have to be difficult (especially with all the information as to how available), and can mean important brand loyalty in the long run.
