eCommerce Team Insights: AI, Emerging Skills & Challenges

From AI-powered shopping experiences to increased demand for sustainable business practices, 2025 is proving to be a year of rapid evolution in eCommerce. In our latest eCommerce Salary Survey, we asked professionals across the industry about the trends, technologies and challenges shaping their world. Here’s what they told us…

The AI Effect: Boosting eCommerce Teams

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword. It's a core part of eCommerce operations. When asked how AI has impacted their teams, here’s what respondents said:

• Enhanced efficiency in operations – 48%
• Improved personalisation – 42%
• Improved customer insights – 33%

These figures reflect the growing reliance on AI tools to streamline backend operations, tailor marketing to individual users and make smarter, data-led decisions. It’s not just hype anymore... AI is firmly embedded in the day-to-day.

And with 62% of respondents identifying AI & machine learning as the most in-demand emerging skill, it’s clear the focus on intelligent tech will only intensify.

eCommerce Skills on the Rise

So what skills are topping hiring wish lists this year? According to our data, here are the most sought-after capabilities in eCommerce:

• AI & machine learning – 62%
• Data analysis and visualisation – 54%
• eCommerce platform development – 46%

As businesses try to get ahead of the competition, hiring teams that can make sense of data, personalise the customer journey and build seamless shopping experiences is a clear priority

What challenges do these eCommerce trends pose?

Of course, keeping up with the change of pace isn’t easy, and many professionals highlighted key blockers to growth and innovation. The top three?

• Budget constraints – 62%
• Rapid advancement of technologies – 49%
• Evolving customer expectations – 43%

While the appetite for change is there, many businesses are being held back by limited resources and the constant need to pivot. Balancing innovation with budget realities is the ongoing challenge. With customers always expecting more and technology evolving faster, keeping up is clearly a big challenge for the future.

eCommerce Gets Greener

Sustainability is also high on the agenda — not just because consumers expect it, but because the industry is recognising the long-term value in building greener practices. Here's how companies are responding:

• Promoting sustainable products – 69%
• Eco-friendly packaging – 66%
• Sustainable sourcing – 62%

With environmental values influencing customer loyalty more than ever, these efforts aren’t just good ethics — they’re smart business. 

What do these trends mean for your eCommerce recruitment strategy?

From AI integration to sustainability and emerging skillsets, eCommerce in 2025 is fast-paced, competitive and full of opportunity. But with evolving expectations and budget challenges, it’s those who act quickly and strategically who will come out on top.

Looking to grow your team with the right skills for the future? Our eCommerce recruitment specialists are here to help.  You can also download a full copy of the 2025 eCommerce salary survey below. With even more exclusive insights, it's a go-to guide for eCommerce recruitment success!