In the ever-changing industry that is eCommerce, a new year brings lots of predictions. Mostly predictions about how eCommerce will evolve over the next 12 months. Certain eCommerce trends at the forefront of people’s mind now were unheard only of a year ago.
Likewise, a few of the top trends this time last year are not much more than a distant memory. It’s funny how quickly things change! Creative Canary outline some of their top eCommerce trends of 2018 (see their fantastic infographic below).
For anyone involved in online retail or eCommerce, it’s well worth reading to see if there is anything that you might have missed in your strategy for the months ahead. Now’s the time to get it right! Here’s a quick overview of the key eCommerce trends:
The rise of review marketing
Promotional content from brands is nowhere near as influential as what it used to be. Instead, brand credibility is dominated by reviews from customers who shout the loudest. Encouraging customers to leave reviews is a wise move, particularly if they put your business in a good light.
Increased user involvement
Many eCommerce retailers are attempting to close the gap between business and customer by inviting customers to add their own content to the retailer’s social media channels. For example, a retailer might run a giveaway which involves customers submitting entries via Snapchat. And a selection of these entries will feature on the retailer’s social channels.
Live chatbots
Most eCommerce sites now have chatbots which pop up to ask if you need help with anything. This is very useful for customers who need urgent assistance when physical retail stores are closed. By solving the query immediately, it strikes a hugely positive chord with the customer.
Augmented & Virtual Reality
Nintendo got the jump on exploiting AR/VR very effectively in 2016 with the global success of Pokémon Go. It’s a technology which an increasing number of eCommerce retailers are utilizing. A typical example is a virtual tour of a shopping center. Allowing the customer to see the store layout and view some of the items up close.
Increase in digital wallet payments
Customer convenience is becoming an increasingly essential factor in eCommerce. With a significant portion of online retail done through smartphones, straightforward digital wallet payments is a major plus for eCommerce retailers.
The value of same-day delivery
In the early days of eCommerce, it was reasonable to wait a few working days before receiving an item. The consumer mentality has shifted to an instant gratification mindset. Products purchased online are expected to arrive within 24 hours. Most customers will happily pay extra for a product if it means same day delivery.
Author Bio
Jack Cameron is Office Manager at Creative Canary, an Australian-based leading web and graphic design, search engine optimisation, and branding company. To make the right impression, attract a worldwide audience and increase revenue, make Creative Canary your first point of call.
Share on social:
