eCommerce became a buzzword of the 2000s and a reality of 2010s. The ecommerce is still one of the most rapidly growing markets worldwide; it’s pushing the internet penetration, mobile services development and it seems that rotation of the globe as well:)
In TMotions we build solutions for eCommerce for more than 7 years, and we always keep the finger on the pulse of the market. Within these seven years we have seen mobile commerce has been rising up, omnichannel solutions became a сommonplace, GDPR made everybody nervous.
But things here are changing very fast. What is happening now with eCommerce market and what changes are about to come up? Let’s look at eCommerce market trends 2019 we have collected here:
Customer experience is getting closer to offline
Customer experience is more important than ever. Customers should feel themselves visiting the retail offline store where they can touch and try everything. Merchants will have to master the combination of webrooming, product demonstrations, reviewing, comparisons – all the tools made users sure about the product features. Many online shops started to provide measurement and tailoring services, helping online with the size selection. Using the maximum quality pictures with the zoom option and videos can be also helpful during the purchase decision-making process.
Mobile Apps are dominating
Have you noticed that you use mobile application for online shopping more often than desktop version? Buyers are more focused on mobile. About 60% of the total Google searches are from mobile devices. Of course, every website should more mobile friendly, but mobile apps win the race here. Online shoppers browse 286% more products on mobile apps than on mobile versions of websites. This trend is also supported by simplified payment technologies on mobile (fingerprints, facial recognition).
Machine Learning / AI are becoming more powerful
Just like in a physical store where you’re a regular customer, managers know what kind of products you like, eCommerce will make you feel the same in upcoming years. Behavior-based analysis leads to personalization and data-driven optimization, which brands and retailers will start using actively. AI will also affect advertisements which are going to be more personalized (Interest-driven). Machine learning fused with the browsing history will give better ads that will improve conversion rate.
More payments methods available
Even 12-10 years ago online payments seemed to be fearful, but now that fear is disappeared. People use various online payment methods. There are not just credit cards, the use of wallets are increasing significantly, and Apple Pay, Walmart Pay, Samsung Pay, and Android Pay are the leaders. Soon online buyers will be able to purchase the product and pay via cryptocurrency, it started already.
Voice Search is changing the rules
Consumers started speaking to their devices and use voice to interact like never before. Merchants will have to change the ways they communicate accordingly. Google is also working on making sure the users get the best results on voice search. This is going to be a game changer in Search Engine Optimization and will design online stores based on voice search trends.
Social media marketing is working for eCommerce
Social media already have a huge impact on eCommerce. Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube are the leaders in driving potential customers to online shops and they are one of the finest tools for customer engagement. In 2019 we would see more personalized ads and influence marketing campaigns that will drive relevant traffic increasing sales.
