E-commerce is a steadily growing industry. Even when a business is based on a brick-and-mortar location, the smart business owner also offers products via an E-commerce website. To succeed in this burgeoning sector, you must stay ahead of the curve. This involves being prepared for upcoming trends and adapting quickly to remain competitive. The following 5 trends should have your attention in 2018.
Voice Search / Voice Shopping
By 2020, it’s predicted that voice search will overtake traditional online text searching. This makes it a leading driver in E-commerce. Innovative products, such as Google Home and Amazon Echo, are growing in popularity. So, make sure you meet customer demand and position your online retail business to take advantage of this technology. Start offering your customers the option to voice shop because soon it will be more than a trend.
Personalization
Consumers have come to expect the personal touch from retailers – to understand their preferences and to cater to their desires. Customer data is key in delivering on these expectations. Demographics, customer info, and past shopping behavior allow you to personalize your customers’ experiences with your business. This is already decisive in getting their attention, building relationships, and encouraging repeat business. Make sure your business does not stay behind.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Machine learning, chatbots, digital virtual agents, robotic process automation…this may sound like something out of a futuristic sci-fi movie, but these are a few ways that AI is currently helping retailers connect with consumers and deliver a better user experience. AI is crucial in helping to personalize the customer experience.
Subscription Models
The subscription method of purchasing goods simplifies shopping. Therefore, a growing number of consumers are embracing this model. To compete with product subscription services, you should already be automatically offering replacements – for 2018, you need to go further and anticipate customer needs.
Augmented Reality
AR has undergone drastic improvements in the tech world, and now this tool is poised to revolutionize how consumers shop online. AR allows online shoppers to better view and interact with your products and simulates the experience they enjoy in a physical store. Investing in this tech and integrating it with personalization and AI is the smart move for E-commerce businesses.
Advancements in technology are drivers in most of these trends, but the end goal in all of them is to deliver an excellent customer experience. Contact Argos to learn how you can implement these strategies in the coming year and grow your business, and your revenue.