Today eCommerce has become the new norm. Experts believe that over 95% of all purchases will happen online by the year 2040. Today, there are 2 billion online shoppers, and the eCommerce industry is growing by 23% annually.
But 46% of the US’s small businesses still don’t have an online store. Probably they ignore the value of eCommerce.
eCommerce Trends and Tips In 2021
Here are some promising eCommerce trends you need to know in 2021.
- Voice Commerce and Search (AI)
Many changes have been in the way we communicate with our devices. These days more people are turning to dictation and voice-based commands. With smart virtual assistants, speakers, home automation systems, etc, people are using voice commands and voice search.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) based systems perform their commands for them. Close to 50% of all searches were voice-based last year.
Business owners must capitalize on this trend and implement this technology into their eCommerce store or app. With voice search, people can order something from your store while driving, while watching a movie, or while reading a book.
- Chatbots and Customer Experience
Many businesses are using chatbots on their apps and online stores. One of the advantages of chatbots is that they can help businesses to improve customer experience. (Chatbots can provide solutions right away!).
With chatbots, brands and businesses can listen to their customers’ complaints, offer solutions, resolve conflicts, etc. Today’s machine learning and AI algorithms allow chatbots to improve their performance.
- Immersive Technologies – AR and VR
Immersive technologies are Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). You can use these technologies to provide advanced solutions to your customers.
For example, you can use AR to welcome customers to your store and even try some of your apparel or outfits out.
With VR, you can go a step further and completely transport them to a different dimension and provide an unforgettable experience.
With AR and VR technologies, the only limitation is your creativity.
- Analytics
One of the reasons why eCommerce is a phenomenon today is because of analytics and Big Data.
eCommerce websites can provide a lot of information and insights. So businesses can discover many aspects about their brands that otherwise were undetected. With analytics, you can improve your business and customer experience.
- Headless Commerce – Personalization Experience
Headless commerce means that you divide the frontend and backend from each other. You could personalize the front end based on your customers’ needs and preferences.
The backend will be generic for all sessions. Executing tasks, retrieving data, etc. The advantage of headless commerce is that every visitor will have a unique and personalized experience on your website.
This interesting trend can increase customer acquisition and retention.
- Omnipresence
These days customers can access your store from their tablets, smartphones, personal computers, and even televisions.
Omnichannel means that they can reach your business or eCommerce through diverse platforms and channels.
A visitor to your eCommerce store or app might be from Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, TikTok, a blog post, a YouTube channel, or another source. With so many platforms, you need to tailor your content and present it in a different way to each platform.
By retaining your brand’s voice, tone, and authority, you establish an omnichannel presence and improve your online presence.
Last Tip
You can also use influencer marketing to reach your potential buyers or customers, connect with them, and generate more sales.
The eCommerce industry keeps growing. Use these trends to improve and grow your eCommerce business in 2021.