Consumers accustomed to e-commerce are targeted by sales person-free shopping
Implications - As consumers become more accustomed to shopping online, the inclination to shop alone is stronger than ever, which is being acknowledged by retailers boasting a more autonomous shopping experience with regard to store concept and display design. While the decrease in dependency on sales people saves resources, the reinforcement of shopping autonomy through less interactivity makes the concept of physical retail seem more dated. This move towards less formalized retail ignores older generations who prefer help, but fits perfectly with the Millennial shopper who already know what they want before even entering the store from online research.
Trend Themes
1. Autonomous Shopping - Retailers are creating more autonomous shopping experiences, emphasizing less interactivity and more independent shopping that saves resources.
2. Social Media Currency - Fashion brands and retail chains are experimenting with accepting tweets, Instagram photos, and social media transactions as currency for their products or services
3. High-tech Self-service - Retail chains like Pharmabox and Deli No.1 are using cutting-edge kiosk technology to provide fast, easy, and convenient services that save time and make purchases more streamlined for consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Retail Industry - Retailers are using autonomous shopping experiences that save resources and put more control in the hands of the shopper.
2. Financial Technology Industry - Social media currency examples transform transactions into social media promotion and can redefine advertising and customer reward systems.
3. Hospitality Industry - Convenient, self-service kiosks provide innovative opportunities for hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality businesses to engage customers and streamline service.
