The Future of E-commerce: Trends to Watch Out For in 2021
The year 2020 has been a turning point for e-commerce, with more businesses moving online due to the pandemic. However, this shift is just the beginning, and e-commerce is expected to continue to grow rapidly in the coming years. In this article, we will discuss the top trends that will shape the future of e-commerce in 2021.
1. Increased Emphasis on Mobile Commerce
Mobile commerce (m-commerce) has been on the rise in recent years, and this trend is set to continue in 2021. With the increasing use of smartphones, consumers are turning to their mobile devices to shop online, and businesses are taking notice. In fact, 72.9% of all e-commerce sales in 2021 are expected to be completed on a mobile device. This means that businesses need to optimize their websites for mobile devices to stay competitive in the market.
2. Growth of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
AR and VR technologies offer consumers an immersive shopping experience, allowing them to visualize products before making a purchase. With the help of AR and VR, consumers can try on clothing, test makeup and even preview furniture in their homes before completing the purchase. This technology is expected to grow in the coming years as businesses look for ways to provide a more personalized shopping experience to their customers.
3. Rise of Social Commerce
Social media platforms are becoming an important sales channel for businesses, with 55% of online shoppers stating that they have made a purchase through a social media platform. Social commerce is expected to grow in 2021 as businesses look for new ways to reach out to their customers. Social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook are already testing new features that will allow businesses to sell their products directly through their platforms.
4. Increased Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have in e-commerce, but a necessity. With consumers becoming more environmentally conscious, businesses are under pressure to adapt to these changing expectations. In 2021, we can expect to see more businesses adopting sustainable practices such as using eco-friendly packaging, reducing carbon emissions, and sourcing materials responsibly.
5. Adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI technology has been increasingly adopted by businesses in recent years, and this trend is set to continue in 2021. AI can help businesses personalize their marketing efforts, improve customer service, and optimize their supply chain. For example, chatbots powered by AI technology can provide instant support to customers, which can improve their experience with the business.
Conclusion
The future of e-commerce is exciting, with businesses adopting new technologies and practices to provide a better shopping experience to their customers. However, the competition is also increasing, with more businesses moving online. To stay competitive, businesses need to keep an eye on the latest trends and adopt new practices that will help them stand out in the market. With the right approach, businesses can thrive in the fast-paced e-commerce industry in 2021 and beyond.
