An Overview of Consumer Shopping Trends

Businesses have recently faced a number of challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As they responded to these hardships, new trends have emerged. Businesses have not only adapted, but they have also adopted new strategies and approaches. Here are a few examples:

Online Shopping

The pandemic has undoubtedly affected consumer shopping habits, which will likely stay. When people couldn't go out, they had to do all their shopping online and through apps. Everything from school supplies and clothing to food and even cannabis had to be delivered to people’s homes. Although people can now be in public more safely, Square's research shows that consumers are still vested in home-focused products, which means many are still reluctant to go out.

Back to In-Store Shopping

In–store shopping took a hit in 2020. Not only were there government restrictions, but consumers did not feel safe in public. However, consumers are now feeling more at ease, thanks to vaccination programs having reached a peak. Although online shopping grew significantly in 2020, Forrester predicts that in-store shopping will still account for more than 70% of shopping in 2024. The retailers that will be able to benefit from in-store shopping will be the ones that enhance the consumer experience, particularly when it comes to weekly grocery shopping.

More Technology

It is no longer enough to just be online; your store must also be user-friendly and accessible. Customers expect you to be reachable on any device, including through virtual assistants and voice commands. Consumers want a seamless, multi-channel shopping experience whenever and wherever they may be. AI and automation are thus being used by businesses to provide intelligent consumer recommendations and quick, accurate service.

Social Shopping

Social media platforms have billions of users, who are all eager to shop. The pandemic accelerated the shift to online shopping, and social media platforms want to be part of the action. They want to provide native shops to their billions of users instead of directing them to third-party stores. In fact, in 2020, Tik Tok and Shopify joined to develop Facebook Shops. Social shopping is estimated to grow to $36 billion in 2021.

Brand and Value Alignment

Consumers are loyal to brands that align with their values and ethics. They actively seek out brands that share their social, environmental, and political views. As a result, brands will need to be more open about their community and social responsibility initiatives.

Sweet Tips from Ally:

Adapting your brand will become much easier if you use the appropriate strategies. Keep these tips in mind and be sure to do some research before adopting any trend.