E commerce has been an important part of the online landscape since it began. In the space of 20 years, the way that we research and buy products has changed beyond recognition. In the age of technology, progress is happening faster than ever before. That’s why it’s even more important to remain well versed with the trends and forecasts in the industry.
Statista predicts that global e commerce sales will increase to 4.5 trillion by 2021; we’re in the middle of a boom that’s showing no signs of stopping. Only the stores that can reach their customers online will be making the most of the potential for sales that they have.
The first step in achieving this is understanding the environment you’re about to go into. That’s why you should know the changes we’re expecting to see in the world of e commerce this year.
Mobile is a Must
Users today are increasingly mobile. 62% of smartphone users have made a purchase online using a device, and this will only grow. That’s why you need to make sure that mobile purchases are not only a possibility, but a priority when it comes to e commerce. It needs to be easy to navigate and make a purchase without a long load time or unresponsive pages. Without this, you’re missing out on hundreds of users who are researching and purchasing online.
Intelligence
As the world of e commerce becomes increasingly competitive, intelligence is the advantage that will separate the successful businesses from the rest. AI is already becoming a part of daily life – when it comes to e commerce, it will be used to make the buying experience more customer aware. Recommendations will be personalised towards each individual, and you’ll even be able to identify future customers based on their browsing habits and interests.
Automation
E commerce automation used to be the exclusive luxury of giants like Amazon and Google. Automated processes would follow a person’s behaviour on your site, and send a prompt email or suggestions when a user left a purchase uncompleted – and the technology behind it was a closely guarded secret. This potential is now available to businesses of all sizes, enabling a top level service no matter what resources you have.
Voice Search
As a digital agency, we see the trends developing in tandem across all of our service. Voice search is already gaining huge potential in SEO, and will grow with e commerce to match. It’s already possible to ask your phone or virtual assistant (such as Alexa) to search for something for you. Soon, you’ll be able to ask it to purchase a product without needing to even click a button.
E commerce is a business that will never slow down. Its growth in recent years has been exponential, and will only continue to bring success to those who are doing it right. In 2018, ‘doing it right’ means catering to an audience who need their e commerce experience to be quick, easy and tailored to them.
For help implementing a solution that will help your e commerce business adapt and grow, whether it’s marketing, technological or creative, speak to the team at Zinc Digital today.
