Ecommerce is a rapidly growing industry. With most people owning a smartphone, computer or tablet, online shopping doesn’t look like it’ll be slowing down any time soon. We all like being able to buy an item without leaving the comfort of our own homes. And, with plenty of delivery options, it’s almost as speedy as popping to the shops.
If you’re thinking of starting an ecommerce business, it’s important to know the current online business trends. What’s hot right now? What are people looking for? Understanding these trends allows you to use them to your advantage.
There are numerous online business trends, but a few of the most popular ones include:
Starting an online business: Many people are choosing to start their own online businesses, and there are a number of reasons for this. First, it can be a great way to earn extra income or even replace a full-time income. Secondly, it can be a great way to achieve work-life balance, as you can often set your own hours and work from home. Finally, starting an online business gives you the opportunity to be your own boss and build something from scratch.
eCommerce: A growing number of businesses are selling their products and services online, and this trend is only going to continue. eCommerce offers a number of advantages, including reach (you can sell to anyone in the world), convenience (customers can purchase 24/7), and lower costs (no need for physical storefronts).
Social media marketing: Social media is a powerful tool that can be used to promote your business. In fact, social media marketing is one of the most effective and affordable marketing strategies available. If you’re not using social media to market your business, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity.
If you’re in business, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends for 2023. Here are some of the current online business trends that you should know about:
1. Mobile shopping
Yes, we all love to shop online. But, as it turns out, people really love to shop from their mobile phones. We want to be able to make a purchase when we’re sitting on a bus or walking in the countryside. It adds another layer of flexibility to a shopping experience that’s already pretty flexible.
So, what does that mean for your ecommerce business? It’s important to have a website that works as seamlessly on a mobile phone as it does on a laptop. The easier it is to buy, the more likely a sale will be made.
2. Augmented reality
Augmented reality, or AR, is quickly becoming popular in the retail world. AR gives shoppers the chance to try on an item virtually. Take glasses, for example. Many eyewear businesses use an AR experience that allows customers to try frames on virtually to see if they suit them.
What does this mean for your ecommerce business? Allowing customers to “try before they buy” will boost sales and could reduce returns. Check out these companies to see how to do AR well.
3. Voice shopping
We all love the sound of our own voice. And, crazily, voice shopping is becoming increasingly popular, especially among low cost products such as groceries. With smart speakers allowing us to talk to machines, we can describe the product and add it to our basket without even looking at a screen.
So, what does this mean for your ecommerce business? You might need to add extra descriptions to products to cater to the growing demand for voice shopping.
4. Sustainability
Online shopping is easy, but it isn’t easy on the environment. Companies such as Amazon have been criticised for their excess of packaging and delivery vehicles on the roads which release harmful greenhouse gases. As a result, sustainability is becoming a trend. People don’t want their shopping habits to hurt the planet.
What does this mean for your ecommerce business? Reducing your environmental impact will not only help the planet, but it’ll attract ethical customers, too.
5. Next day delivery
Next day delivery has a massive impact on sales. With companies such as Asos and Amazon Prime shipping items in next to no time, next day delivery is a perk that many customers are starting to expect.
What does this mean for your ecommerce business? Next day delivery drives sales, so try to include it where possible. If you’re worried about profit, work out the delivery cost of your item and add it to the sales price. You won’t be out of pocket, but you create an incentive to make a purchase.
