The pandemic has likely changed retail forever; the entire structure of the retail process has been shaken to its core and it’s very likely that a shift towards digital consumption is inevitable. True enough, over the past 2 years, consumers have become more accustomed to online discovery and buying options, and such has opened the eyes of many others to the same. Subsequently, the expectations on in-store shopping, as a result of the online shift and partially due to the re-opening of physical retail, have also increased.
This is exactly the focus of Facebook’s most recent study. Through this new research, Facebook is looking at evolving consumer behaviors and how various businesses can better align their shopping experiences with a range of new elements that can potentially enhance their processes.
The full 28-page study, titled ‘The New Era Of Shopping Is Hybrid’, through Facebook IQ, outlines several emerging trends and how they’re affected or, at the very least, influenced by newer technologies, such as AR and VR.
Again, like our previous approaches, you’re always given the access to the full piece, so you can freely browse more detailed information there. For the purpose of providing brief, yet substantial, insight, we’ll simply be going over the following points:
Hybrid is the new normal – Nowadays, people see very little difference between online and offline stores. At the end of the day, it’s all about shopping. Highlights a new, emerging “No Compromise” consumer mindset.
Online Shopping UX = Physical Shopping UX – Improved comfort with shopping online begs the question of how brands can make in-store shopping experiences just as seamless, easy, and convenient. For the most part, it’s only with in-store shopping that you can try on items such as clothing.
In-Store Agility – Shoppers are bridging the gap that used to distinctly separate online and offline shopping. Retailers now need to strike a balance between driving discovery and inspiration along with the provision of total convenience.
Immerse Them – Consumers want to once again feel the excitement of offline shopping, along with a more ‘Human’ touch. This is where AR/VR technology can play a role as they can help consumers leverage the advantages of digital shopping even when in physical stores.
The Wrap
In a way, Facebook is highlighting how the concept of the Metaverse is partially achieved in providing, or at least trying to, a better shopping experience that bridges both online and offline shopping scenarios. The advancement of technology has no doubt greatly contributed to the convenience factor of online shopping, but that doesn’t mean tht convenience will ever fully replace the satisfaction and innate connection found only when shopping in-store.
Quite ironically, the very thought of building virtual shopping centers, which are essentially digital reconstructions of real-life places, points to the fact that people will always have a place of physical stores in their hearts. At most, what this ‘hybridization’ brings is a plethora of new opportunities to improve the overall shipping experience we can get from both online and offline shopping – better, more streamlined, and more varied purchase options.
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