The ecommerce market continues to grow at a rapid pace, with it expected to account for 18 per cent of all retail purchases in 2018. This is predicted to eventually mean that by 2040 around 95 per cent of all purchases will at least be facilitated by ecommerce in some way. Every year it seems to break a new record and with further advancements in technology the ecommerce market is evolving all the time. Whether you work in the industry or are a curious consumer, these are some of the latest trends shaping its future.
Mobile Commerce
Browsing ecommerce sites on mobile devices now exceeds that of desktop, with recent studies showing it accounts for around 59 per cent of all browsing sessions. However, this doesn’t always equate to sales, with the same study finding that only 38 per cent of purchases are made on mobile. Still, this figure is increasing which is why it’s so important for ecommerce businesses to make sure their sites are optimised for mobile. While for consumers it should make browsing and buying on mobile a lot easier.
Social Selling
Ecommerce orders from social media have also been growing, helped by the increase in consumers placing orders through their mobiles no doubt. Mobile wallets such as Apple Pay, social buy buttons and targeted/sponsored ads have all led to the rise, so that consumers can make purchases directly through social media sites and apps. Shopping on Facebook, Instagram and more have all created extra channels for ecommerce companies without the need to redirect to their main site.
Advanced Deliveries
There are now more options than ever when you get to the checkout, as increasing competition and consumer demand has resulted in an increase of delivery options. Parcel delivery services have evolved from simply next day to same day, time specific slots and more. Developments are underway to offer delivery to consumers’ cars when they are parked at work, along with the constant trials of drone deliveries and more.
Voice Search
Many have predicted that 2018 will be the year voice search takes off in general, with the likes of Alexa and Google Assistant becoming widely accepted. This should have a big impact on ecommerce, especially with the rise of mobile commerce too, as it provides an even more convenient way for buyers to browse. It could even see more purchases made through devices such as Alexa and Google Assistant.
Ecommerce continues to evolve and change and companies need to stay on top of such trends to avoid being left behind.
