Forget Ecommerce. I Need 'See' Commerce.

If my retail roots led you to surmise I'm the kind of person who likes shopping, you are right.

I also like malls.

I know I'm not in the majority here, but I find malls to be a quasi soothing, almost comforting type of place.

These days, I miss wandering aimlessly through them, as a diversion when I'm stuck and need an idea, or want a break or a change of scenery or if it's too cold or too hot outside or...well, anytime, really.

But I don't simply visit malls to buy something—although that is a nice side benefit.

I go there to meander, watch and browse.

Lately, I've been wondering about the whole mall situation and what might happen to them post-Covid. Some analysts predict up to 25% of US shopping centers will close in the next five years or so.

Personally, I find the whole concept of dead malls a sad reflection on the state of bricks and mortar retail.

And sure, Pinterest and Instagram are trying to become the digital equivalent of shopping plazas, but it's not quite the same.

Not So Great Expectations

Still, like many of you, I've switched to shopping mostly online.

And I've come to the realization I'm pretty bad at the process.

I'm not referring to the actual ecommerce part. That, I can handle.

It's got more to do with search and discovery and the disappointment I get when my package arrives, and it just doesn't live up to my expectations.

It isn't exactly a case of buyer's remorse. It's more a failure on my part to visualize my purchase beyond the screen.

In other words, I need help with my 'see' commerce.

Does that ever happen to you?

Shop Till You Drop (Ship)

But we adapt. So it's not surprising to hear that in second quarter of 2020 ecommerce has increased 44% compared to the same period last year.

And social platforms are trying to improve the buying and selling process for customers and brands.

That's what we talk about in this week's video: how Facebook and Instagram are taking care of (local) business, how Google's opening its formerly paid shopping search to organic results, and how v- or voice commerce could alter your shopping habits even more.

Check it out (before you check out, that is).

Connect with Martin

You know that feeling when you put on a new piece of clothing for a first time and it just feels right? Well, I had a similar experience this week with my website, which was just redesigned. Have a look and let me know what you think.

And with that, it's time to head to complete your reading transaction for lucky issue number 13.

As always, thank you for reading and subscribing! I appreciate you being here and look forward to your thoughts and tips about how you developed your own learning paths.

Be sure to reach out if you have questions about any of the videos in Digital Marketing Trends, or my other LinkedIn Learning courses.

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Happy shopping!