Key Ecommerce Trends for 2025

Welcome to “Modern Retailing”

This newsletter is all about modern retailing, and that’s exactly what each issue focuses on.

In this edition:

?? We start with key news from the retail industry, including highlights like Prada’s strategic shifts and Kaufland’s latest event.

?? Next, we dive into the power of social networks and their growing role in retail strategies.

?? For e-commerce insights, we explore Shopify’s take on emerging trends and discuss Amazon’s bold response to Temu’s aggressive tactics with its new offering, Haul.

?? Lastly, we spotlight two must-attend events happening tomorrow—don’t miss them!

Thank you for being part of this vibrant community of retail enthusiasts and specialists.

Enjoy the read, and stay inspired!

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Inside This Edition

• ?Retail Roundup - the latest news
• Social Media is The Retail Game-Changer ??
• Prada & Miu Miu Bring Luxury to Bitmoji!
• Shopify's 14 Key Ecommerce Trends for 2025
• Amazon Launches ‘Amazon Haul’ to Compete with Temu and Shein
• Forbes Technology Council
• Events

Retail Roundup - latest news

1. More Retail Expands Small-Format Stores Across India with Backing from Samara Capital & Amazon
2. Social Shopping Takes Off in Germany: 44% of Shoppers Use Instagram/TikTok for Purchases
3. Majid Al Futtaim’s AI-Powered Precision Media Revolutionizes Brand Engagement in 450 Carrefour Stores
4. 7-Eleven to Expand Gulp Radio Programming to 12,000 Stores by 2025, Boosting Sales with Targeted Ads
5. Sephora’s UK Expansion: 20 New Stores Planned Over the Next 2–3 Years
6. The Paper Store Celebrates 60 Years with a New Retail Concept, Uncharted, and $60M Expansion
7. Advance Auto Parts Restructures: Closing 523 Stores to Boost Performance and Expand New Openings
8. Decathlon Sets Sights on Growing Store Network in Germany: 90 to 150 Locations by 2027
9. Amazon Ends Fresh Grocery Delivery in Germany, Shifts Focus to Non-Perishables and New Partnerships
10. CDS Superstores Acquires Homebase Brand, Saves 1,600 Jobs Amid Retail Collapse
11. MediaMarktSaturn Launches Innovative Smart-Stores in Germany, Combining Convenience & Tech Solutions

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Social Media is The Retail Game-Changer ??

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In today's competitive retail landscape, social networks have become essential tools for success. Platforms like TikTok are revolutionizing the way consumers discover and purchase products, especially during peak seasons like the holidays.

A recent survey done by the marketing agency MGH revealed:

• 55% of TikTok users found holiday gift ideas while scrolling.
• 39% actively searched for inspiration on the app.
• 47% bought for themselves, and 37% purchased gifts for others through TikTok Shop.

From unboxing videos to user reviews, content drives purchasing decisions, proving the undeniable influence of social media on modern retail.

Retailers like Kaufland are already embracing this shift. Their Social Media Day in Heilbronn showcased how AI and platforms like TikTok are shaping the future of retail. With expert insights from Julius Winter (TikTok) and influencers like Kikis Kitchen, the event emphasized the importance of engaging, innovative content in driving sales.

As global e-commerce sales during Cyber Week are projected to reach $311 billion, it's clear: Social media is not just a marketing tool—it's a retail powerhouse. ??

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Prada & Miu Miu Bring Luxury to Bitmoji!

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We’re witnessing a new chapter in luxury fashion! Prada and Miu Miu have become trailblazers as the first brands to launch a handbag category on Bitmoji (Snap Inc.).

Starting November 19th, Snapchat users can express their style with Bitmoji featuring:

?? Prada’s Small Galleria Bag in Saffiano Leather

?? Miu Miu’s Wander Bag—a Gen-Z favorite

But it doesn’t stop at handbags! Bitmoji can now sport iconic looks like:

?? Prada’s Cashmere Cardigan

?? Re-Nylon Baseball Cap

?? Miu Miu’s Chino Mini Skirt and cropped knitwear

This first-to-market collaboration allows Snapchatters to flaunt their Prada and Miu Miu accessories across the app—from Snap Profiles and Lenses to Snap Maps and Stickers.

?? Prada and Miu Miu’s partnership with Snap Inc. has consistently pushed boundaries, merging physical and digital worlds. From AR Bag Try-On Lenses to Bitmoji customization, this innovation cements their place at the forefront of fashion-tech evolution.

Luxury has officially gone digital—how are you embracing the future of fashion? Share your insights below! ??

?Shopify's 14 Key Ecommerce Trends for 2025

As 2025 approaches, ecommerce brands must adapt to shifting consumer behaviors and technological advancements to stay competitive. Shopify, a leader in digital commerce, highlights 14 key trends that will define the online shopping landscape next year.

The Growth of Ecommerce

By the end of 2024, US online sales are projected to reach $1.14 trillion, joining China in the trillion-dollar ecommerce club. Globally, online sales are expected to represent nearly 21% of all retail sales by 2025, rising to 25% by 2027.

Emerging markets like Turkey, Brazil, India, and Mexico are leading ecommerce growth, offering significant opportunities for expansion.

Trends to Watch in 2025

1. Mindful Shopping Economic pressures are encouraging shoppers to prioritize quality and sustainability over quantity. Brands promoting durability and repair services, like Neem London, are resonating with consumers.
2. Omnichannel Shopping Nearly half of shoppers desire a seamless blend of online and in-store experiences. Tools like Shopify POS enable retailers to integrate physical and digital sales channels, improving conversions.
3. Detailed Product Pages Clear, comprehensive product information—including visuals, reviews, and pricing—can make or break a sale, as 70% of shoppers depend on it for purchase decisions.
4. Sustainability with Strategy While shoppers value eco-friendly options, affordability remains key. Initiatives like Shopify’s Planet app enable brands to highlight green practices while maintaining competitive pricing.
5. Social Commerce Expansion Social platforms like Instagram and TikTok are transforming into shopping hubs, with US social commerce sales projected to exceed $100 billion in 2025.
6. Voice Search Optimization Voice commerce is set to grow, with purchases via voice assistants projected to hit $164 billion globally by 2025.
7. Advanced Chatbots Chatbots are becoming integral to customer support, offering fast, personalized service. Brands like NuFace are humanizing these interactions for stronger connections.
8. Mobile Shopping Dominance With 64% of global web traffic coming from mobile devices, brands must prioritize user-friendly mobile experiences to attract and retain customers.
9. Personalization Through First-Party Data As third-party cookies phase out, collecting and leveraging first-party data will help brands personalize experiences and adapt to privacy regulations.
10. Mainstream AR Adoption Augmented reality is helping customers visualize products, boosting confidence and sales. Shopify merchants like Rebecca Minkoff have seen conversion rates soar with AR tools.
11. 3D Product Visualization 3D images offer an interactive way to showcase products, increasing engagement and purchase likelihood.
12. Live Shopping Growth Livestream shopping is gaining traction, allowing brands to engage with customers in real time. The US live commerce market is projected to reach $35 billion by 2024.
13. Resale Market Boom Platforms like Depop and Poshmark are thriving as more consumers embrace secondhand shopping for affordability and sustainability.
14. Cross-Border Shopping As ecommerce transcends borders, brands can tap into global markets with strategies tailored to diverse consumer preferences.

The ecommerce landscape is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead requires understanding these trends and integrating them into your strategy. Whether through omnichannel experiences, AR, or sustainable practices, brands that align with consumer preferences will thrive in 2025 and beyond.

For more insights, check out Shopify’s full report on 2025 ecommerce trends:

Amazon Launches ‘Amazon Haul’ to Compete with Temu and Shein

Amazon has introduced Amazon Haul, a new discount storefront aimed at competing with Temu and Shein. Available only on the mobile app or web, Amazon Haul offers mass-produced, low-cost items—many from China—similar to its competitors. Products, including clothing and household goods, are displayed in a grid format with emojis highlighting sales and low prices, but shipping times are longer, up to two weeks.

While Amazon is expanding into this budget retail space, it faces challenges like potential tariffs on Chinese imports and environmental concerns linked to fast fashion. However, Amazon’s established trust with customers, alongside a 15-day return policy, may give it an edge over newer platforms.

Amazon Haul reflects a shift toward offering affordable goods, though it remains to be seen if this model can thrive amid rising scrutiny of low-cost e-commerce.

But Who Will Dominate the Discount Empire?

Can Amazon’s trusted brand and massive logistics network crush Temu’s viral success and unbeatable prices?

Join us on 28 November at 17:00 CET for our Retail Talk and discuss this exciting topic live with us!

Forbes Technology Council

I’m Honored to Join the Forbes Technology Council

I’m excited to share that I have been accepted into the Forbes Technology Council, an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs, and technology executives.

I was selected by a review committee based on my experience and accomplishments, including my work with Fiscal Solutions and our impact on the retail tech industry.

I’m grateful for this recognition and the opportunity to connect with other exceptional leaders who are shaping the future of technology.

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I look forward to collaborating with respected peers, sharing my insights through articles on Forbes.com, and participating in Expert Panels alongside other experts.

Visit my profile at Forbes here.

Joining this esteemed community is a significant step forward in my journey with Fiscal Solutions. It will help me further cement my role in the industry and connect with others who are driving innovation in the tech space. I look forward to what we can accomplish together.

To learn more about Forbes Councils, visit https://councils.forbes.com.?

Events

??? Retail Talk Showdown: Amazon Haul vs. Temu – Who Will Dominate the Discount Empire? ???

Join us, Mitul K. Jain and me, on November 28th at 5 PM CET for a controversial and unfiltered debate about one of retail’s fiercest battles: Amazon Haul taking on the rising giant Temu!

Both are vying for control of the ultra-low-cost market, but can Amazon’s trusted brand and massive logistics network crush Temu’s viral success and unbeatable prices? Or is Amazon playing a dangerous game in unfamiliar territory?

?? What’s at stake?

• Temu’s winning strategy: Viral marketing, unbeatable prices, and Gen Z loyalty.
• Amazon Haul’s strengths: Global trust, scale, and convenience – but can it match Temu’s speed and price?
• The battle for the bargain-hunter’s wallet: Will customer trust or rock-bottom prices win in the end?

Expect bold opinions, heated debates, and insights that could reshape how we view the future of retail.

Don’t miss out on this showdown!

?? November 28th, 5 PM CET ??Retail Talk Live on linkedin, youtube and X (on X space you can join even live)

?https://www.dhirubhai.net/events/7267475909190762497/comments/

Let’s find out if Amazon Haul can rise or if Temu will reign supreme. See you there! ??

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?? Webinar Invitation: Are You Exempt from Spain’s New Fiscalization Rules? ??

?? Confused by Spain’s fiscalization laws? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! The introduction of VeriFactu has left many retailers questioning if they need to comply.

Join us LIVE on November 28th at 3 PM CET for a must-attend webinar that will break down everything you need to know about fiscalization in Spain:

?? Key Topics:

• Who needs fiscalization? Subjective, objective, and territorial scope.
• What’s new? Learn the latest requirements and compliance standards.
• Deadlines and penalties: Avoid costly mistakes and stay on track.
• VeriFactu vs. Non-VeriFactu: Understand the differences and requirements.

?? Speaker Spotlight: Nikolina Basic , a fiscal law expert with in-depth knowledge across 11 fiscal countries, will guide you through these changes and answer your questions.

?? Why attend?

• Get clarity on complex regulations.
• Avoid compliance pitfalls and penalties.
• Learn from a top expert in the field.

??? Save the Date: ?? November 28th, 2024 ? 3 PM CET ?? Live & Online

Don’t miss this essential update—register now!

https://fiscalsolutions.clickmeeting.com/fiscalization-in-spain-not-every-retailer-needs-it-/register

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?? We’re heading to NRF 2025 in New York! ??

Why? Because it’s the most important trade show for the retail industry worldwide.

We’re attending for two key reasons:

1?? Stay Ahead of Trends: We’re excited to learn, prepare for upcoming innovations, and bring the latest insights back to our partners.

2?? Support Our Customers: As the go-to experts in fiscalization across 27 countries, we’ll be there to provide guidance and answer any questions.

?? Big News Alert: We’ll also be unveiling a new product that makes fiscalization even easier!

Catch us before NRF in NYC or visit us at booth 1337 during the show. Let’s grab a coffee—or a beer—in the Big Apple! ?????

?If you haven’t subscribed to this newsletter yet, now is the time. Staying informed about developments in your industry is crucial. Retail is very dynamic, and retail tech even more so. My newsletter will help you stay connected with the community and keep you informed about the latest trends and insights.

My goal with this newsletter is to create a valuable resource for insights into retail and the technologies shaping its future.

I genuinely enjoy the process of researching and writing each issue :-)

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