In a world of rapid innovation and countless consumer options, retailers are exploring new ways to adapt their practices and technology to meet the changing needs of consumers. The landscape of retail in 2025 has evolved such that individual, tailored shopping experiences are not only welcomed but expected. The increased use of mobile phones to shop, coupled with the rise of social media applications, highlights consumer preferences toward ease of accessibility and efficiency when making purchasing decisions. While there are lots of opportunities for retailers to capture consumer attention and ultimately lead them through the buyer’s journey, significant data concerns remain a top issue for retailers.
Navigating Security Concerns in Retail: Protecting Consumer and Corporate Data
The growing trend toward accessibility and ease when purchasing has posed many new security threats to consumers, particularly regarding data protection. Many consumers express concerns when following purchase links from social media, entering personal details online, and using in-store devices. Current fear surrounding data theft and fraud deter consumers from shopping and impact retailers’ ability to implement new purchasing channels effectively. Retailers must leverage robust security measures and technology to build trust with the consumer and reassure them that their data is secure.
AI-Driven Personalization in Retail: Tailored Consumer Experiences
The buyer’s journey has shifted, and consumers no longer simply research and purchase. They increasingly explore options and outlets to shop, whether in-store or online, and expectations surrounding the shopping experience have grown in conjunction with this hybrid approach. In fact, our research shows that consumers prefer shopping with retailers that provide a tailored shopping experience. As retailers look for ways to meet these changing consumer needs, the integration of AI into retail commerce becomes promising. Currently, there is untapped potential for enhanced personalization, catered marketing, customized recommendations based on past purchases, and more.
The Rise of Social Commerce: New Purchasing Channels
Convenience and speed are at the forefront of consumer decision making, and social commerce meets both preferences extremely well. As individuals use mobile phones to purchase goods more than ever before, social media has been a natural progression in consumerism, as it is easy to use, provides recommendations, and stays up to date with the latest trends. Innovative promotion strategies and selected influencers have also impacted what and how consumers purchase.
SOTI’s latest retail report, The Rise of Social Commerce: Turning Tech-Driven Browsers into Influenced Buyers, launches January 28. In the report, we explore the three key themes that are highlighted in this blog and examine how the retail industry can leverage these insights to drive growth, remain secure and meet consumer expectations.
