Ever wondered what ecommerce will look like in the future?
Consulting firm Ovum is giving us a peek into the future with their ecommerce forecast through 2026, which answers questions about what might change within the online marketplace, how technology may impact the industry, and what future consumers will likely expect.
Take a look at some of the key takeaways of this research to better understand where ecommerce is moving and to prepare yourself for the future.
The Customer of the Future
Today, ecommerce customers, for the most part, expect good deals and quick delivery. However, a growing number of online consumers (largely millennials) are already beginning to shift expectations and raise the bar. They want unique products that can’t be found in
What does this mean for the future?
High expectations & unique experiences
Ovum predicts that by 2026, the bar will be even higher for ecommerce merchants. Shoppers will expect things like seamless experiences across devices and touchpoints, instant access to support, fast turnaround of orders, personalized experiences, and free or
Complex shopping journeys
As technology adds more touchpoints to the shopping journey (think mobile, desktop,
The sharing economy
Buyers of the future will also likely expect online merchants to tap into the sharing economy as well. Smart retailers will need to learn to leverage partnerships and sharing opportunities, such as retailers like H&M are already doing with their donations of returned products to charities. This presents an opportunity for greater sustainability efforts, less waste, and more moments of giving — all of which is a positive message for consumers to hear.
Blurred Boundaries Between Online and Offline
With big ecommerce brands like Amazon testing out the physical retail model (their Amazon Books and Amazon Go stores, for example), in the future, we can expect to see the line between online and offline points of purchase become more seamless and intertwined for retailers large and small.
Let’s look at some of the key ways this may manifest itself.
Experience-fulfillment
Rather than an
Manufacturers gain power
As manufacturers seek more control over how their products are displayed and sold, they may be able to exercise their power more in the future — especially in the electrical devices marketplace — by favoriting only sites that meet their requirements.
From omnichannel to omnibrand
Retails who approach the experience from a
Increased Mobile Sales
As smartphones with larger screens become the norm, we can continue to see more and more shoppers using mobile devices for ecommerce transactions. Retailers who optimize their websites and processes with a
What else does this mean for mobile commerce?
Using geolocation
Looking ahead, it’s likely that geolocation will be leveraged by retailers looking to deliver contextual marketing to customers. The adaptation period for hyperlocal commerce may be slow, and retailers must use this data responsibly without overstepping the bounds of privacy. However, used conservatively, this type of data can help shoppers get the best possible deals nearby — and creates opportunities for customer engagement on a whole new level.
More mobile payments
Mobile payment will most likely be mainstream by 2026 but will have evolved thanks to improvements in tech. This means most payment formats across the board may shift to be more
Mobile loyalty programs
With
Mobile advertising
Mobile advertising will continue on an upward trajectory — and spending will most certainly increase within this medium. However, native applications will likely be replaced by more intuitive approaches that help retailers select the most relevant channel to accomplish advertising goals.
Future Technologies
By 2026, we’ll likely live in a
Here are some specific ways technology may impact ecommerce:
The Internet of Things (IoT)
If IoT payment and commerce applications don’t have a
Wearable Tech
Wearables may be a solid source of detailed data — which enables more accurate advertising through mobile mediums. However, privacy infringement will be a major concern for shoppers — so retailers will have to walk a fine line when targeting consumers via wearable tech.
Augmented reality
Augmented reality (AR) will likely have the most impact on the ecommerce retail experience, as it allows merchants to showcase enhanced information or graphics that blur the lines between physical and digital worlds. Keep in mind that AR is different from virtual reality, which is a fully immersive experience. AR will help enhance the experience by allowing shoppers to view products in their homes, which can then immediately be purchased.
Preparing for the Future of Ecommerce: Final Tips
With all of these insights for the future of ecommerce, there are a few key things you need to keep in mind as you prepare for the world ahead:
- Be flexible, train often. Ecommerce retailers will have to be flexible and accommodate the many changes ahead. This process is made easier through constant learning, training, and innovation — so it’s essential to embrace a bit of a learning curve.
- Leverage segmentation. By 2026, segmentation may no longer be appropriate for consumers who move seamlessly between segments. Instead, more advanced, creative models will be needed that embrace this fluidity while still delivering relevant, personalized experiences.
- Know the limits of personalization. Go too far with personalization in the future, and you might ruin your profit margins. Keep in mind that
cost-efficiency and scalability can be destroyed when you try to create a product that’s too personalized. Retailers will need to strike a balance between personalization and mass production. - Study your shoppers. Online retailers that will succeed in the future are the ones who know and understand their customers — from marketing preferences to buying habits and beyond. Use analytics to study and deeply understand what your shoppers need and want from you.
- Refine your brand. Finally, there’s the element of branding. Knowing who you are and what you represent as a brand will help you establish a unique, memorable angle within this evolving marketplace. Strive to constantly refine your branding elements, and you’ll maintain a lasting, relevant impression in a hectic online market.
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2026 is a long time from now, but that’s no reason to put off your preparation. Get a head start with your plans for the future, and think about what you’ll do to stand out against your competition.
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