eCommerce Trends - exciting developments of 2024 so far!

From AI-powered innovations to a continued focus on sustainability, what's new in the world of retail?

Keeping up with eCommerce industry trends is essential for businesses aiming to stay competitive in this industry. For Cranberry Panda, it helps us with our ongoing conversations with candidates and clients.

So, we wanted to share some of the exciting developments and trends that have caught our eye this year! 

Moss ensures customers are suited and booted with AI

We have focused on AI in many of our recent blogs - after all, we love to keep up with the latest industry trends. Furthermore, our 2024 eCommerce salary survey revealed that a huge 94% of respondents believed AI would play a bigger part in eCommerce roles in the future.

Moss, a retailer specialising in men's suits and formalwear, is currently testing an innovative virtual try-on tool on its website. This tool allows shoppers to visualize themselves on the screen wearing different outfits. Powered by AI, it aims to provide convenience, personalisation, and a seamless shopping experience.

Will more retail employees be getting AI training?

With continued discussion around AI, are companies fully prepared to implement it in the right way? In recent news, Ikea unveiled ambitious plans to provide artificial intelligence (AI) training to approximately 3,000 employees and 500 leaders. So, it shows that a company-wide program will not only prepare people but empower them in a new age of AI. Will other companies follow suit? 

Dr Martens unveils new sustainable collection

Dr Martens has partnered with Gen Phoenix to re-engineer leather offcuts to generate the Genix Nappa collection. The importance of sustainability in eCommerce continues to be a huge focus for brands. Not only is it an exciting development, but an important one. 

A company profile tracked how Dr Martens is ensuring that zero waste is sent to landfill by 2028. Furthermore, by that time 100% of the products it sells will have a sustainable end-of-life option.

Primark's eCommerce journey

For anyone living in the UK, it's safe to say Primark is a mainstay in high street retail. Notably, Primark was known for avoiding the eCommerce route while all the rivals jumped aboard. Then, in 2023, the business announced its new click-and-collect service.

For many, it was long overdue. Will there be further evolution? Right now, it seems this strategy works best to counter high delivery costs. With lower prices and high returns, Primark realised it was not viable to make the jump into delivery immediately. For now, the retail giant will extend its click-and-collect service, maintaining caution as it decides the next move!

Stay updated with the latest industry news!

Be sure to keep your eyes on our blog - with exclusive content from our 2024 eCommerce salary survey being released weekly, you won't want to miss it!