10 Trends to Expect in eCommerce in 2021

With 2020 on the way out, it’s natural to want to know what eCommerce in 2021 might hold. What does the future look like? With the current trajectory of eCommerce, it’s possible to make some pretty accurate determinations about where the industry as a whole will go in the next year. Below, you’ll find 10 ECommerce trends to be aware of and that should inform your marketing and sales-related decisions moving forward.

Massive Sales Growth for eCommerce in 2021

First and foremost, expect to see sales continue their meteoric rise. 2020 was expected to add £5.3 billion thanks to COVID-19. Prior to COVID-19, expectations for 2021 were for it to generate £3.93 trillion. For retailers, that means having a robust, polished, properly branded website is absolutely critical.

Be There, Wherever There Is

In the past, you could expect customers to flock to just one or two online sales channels. They might purchase through your company’s website, or maybe they found your products on Amazon. However, consumer behaviour is becoming more and more fluid, and your customers are expanding the digital channels they use. You must know where, when, how, and why your products sell through a particular digital channel.

Expect More Social Shopping

Social shopping is nothing new, but when it comes to predictions for eCommerce in 2021, expect to see the trend accelerate. You’ll find “buy” buttons on most social networks today, including Facebook, but also on Instagram and Pinterest. Make sure that you’re able to take advantage of this growing trend.

A Shift Away from the United States

In the past, the US was the eCommerce giant. In 2021, that giant loses some of its stature. Who will become the next eCommerce king? While some fingers point to countries like China, it looks like ECommerce trends will be more democratised, with multiple nations seeing a groundswell. In short, this means that businesses need to adapt to an international customer base.

At-Home Customers Shopping Abroad

Once, you could expect to sell more of your products to people in your own nation, but that’s increasingly not the case. More and more, consumers and businesses are shopping abroad. It’s your job to find out why – price? Quality? Authenticity? Learn why and then adapt your strategy.

B2C Takes Second Position

Consumers are used to being treated like royalty, but for eCommerce in 2021, the B2B sphere will accelerate and B2C industries will take second position. However, B2B industries need to learn, adapt, and change if they’re going to offer a positive experience.

Personalisation Is the Norm

ECommerce Trends | 10 Trends to Expect in 2021

We’ve already seen this trend in action, but look for it to accelerate. You will no longer be able to ignore it or provide a bare nod to personalisation. Consumers will expect interactions to be personalised and if you’re unable to deliver, they’ll happily go elsewhere.

Mobile, Mobile, Mobile

This is another continuation. Mobile shopping will account for a growing percentage of eCommerce in 2021. Make sure you’re positioned to deliver on consumer preferences with a mobile-friendly site, advanced encryption, and more.

Shopping by Voice

Voice search is already here, but be prepared for it to play a larger and larger role. This goes beyond local businesses and includes shopping by voice through smart assistants like Alexa.

Cryptocurrencies

In our final prediction for eCommerce in 2021, you can look for cryptocurrencies to gain even more traction. Also, you’ll need to accommodate other payment methods, including Apple and Google Pay.

These are just some of the ECommerce trends that will affect eCommerce in 2021. While some things are still unclear, you can count on these to affect your success.

Richard Coen

With over 21 years of experience in Digital Marketing, 31 years in sales and 25 years in business development, Richard assists companies to develop key growth strategies on a local or international basis. He can assist marketers to achieve balance in their approach to key areas affected by the growth in digital marketing.