14 eCommerce Trends You Can’t Ignore in 2023

Abigail Bosze

Content Writer

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Let’s dive right into it – we’re living in a world that’s constantly evolving and changing. 

It seems like every little thing that happens can have a ripple effect on society, which in turn affects how people behave and what they consume.

This has a huge impact on eCommerce trends, online sales, and even the products that are currently hot and trending. 

So, if you’re curious about what’s driving these consumer trends that ultimately shape the eCommerce landscape, you’ve come to the right place.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a quick look at what actually drives these eCommerce trends. If you’re short on time, just download our free eCommerce trends infographic to see what trends you should look out for in 2023!

Understanding these factors will help us get a better grasp on how and why people are consuming the way they are.

eCommerce Trends: What Drives Them

It can be a little overwhelming to think about how the eCommerce industry is constantly evolving, especially since these changes are happening all over the world.

Believe it or not, a lot of these changes stem from crises. It’s often during these tough times that we start to see major shifts in the way things work.

But, here’s the thing. When it comes to identifying eCommerce trends, we can’t just rely on our personal opinions. 

We need to pay close attention to what’s actually happening in the industry.

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at some of the factors that are currently shaping the eCommerce market and potentially creating business challenges or opportunities.

1. Resources: Energy and Raw Materials Crisis

As you may have noticed, we’re facing some pretty serious energy and raw material crises right now. 

Because of this, there’s been a huge push toward investing in new, sustainable energy sources. 

Plus, we’re seeing a rise in demand for raw materials and resources, which is putting a strain on the industry.

And, to make matters even more complicated, the war in Ukraine is causing some serious disruptions to product production and eCommerce logistics.

But, here’s the silver lining. All of these changes have paved the way for some really exciting eCommerce trends to emerge. 

Who knows what the future holds, but it’s clear that the industry is always evolving.

2. Economy: Instability and Hyperinflation

As you probably know, the economy can be pretty unpredictable, and right now, we’re seeing some instability and hyperinflation. 

What does that mean for us? Well, it means that the stock market is up and down like a rollercoaster and that basic expenses are skyrocketing.

 It’s tough out there and people are feeling the pinch in their wallets. 

This can have a big impact on eCommerce trends because when people are struggling financially, they tend to be more cautious with their spending.

3. Society: Radicalisms and Toxic Masculinity

We’re seeing a lot of extreme viewpoints being expressed these days and unfortunately, it’s leading to more and more confrontations. 

It’s not a good look and it’s something we should all be concerned about. 

On top of that, there’s a growing awareness that traditional gender roles aren’t always helpful or healthy. 

We need to be open to redefining what it means to be a man in today’s society.

1. Energy Transition

Did you know that 84.7% of the world’s energy is produced from fossil fuels? (BP Statistical Review of World Energy 2022) Yikes! 

The thing is, these fuels are finite, meaning we can’t keep using them forever. 

That’s why there’s been a recent push in the energy market towards savings, efficiency, and a transition to renewable energies.

One of the most popular forms of renewable energy these days is solar power.

It’s becoming more and more common to see solar panels popping up on rooftops everywhere, even if they’re not the most stylish thing to look at. 

But hey, who needs looks when you’ve got functionality, right?

Unfortunately, this transition towards renewable energy hasn’t come without its drawbacks. 

We’re currently experiencing an unprecedented rise in the price of electricity bills, which is affecting businesses and causing people to get creative with ways to stay warm and save money.

Speaking of businesses, those that have both physical and online stores are feeling the pinch more than most. 

The profitability of their brick-and-mortar locations is being affected, thanks to the rising cost of electricity. 

So, what can eCommerce businesses do to adapt to this new reality?

Well, for starters, they can focus on offering products that cater to people’s needs during these chilly times by looking at their customer journey.

Think thermal clothing that’s not only warm but comfortable enough to wear at home, thermal insulation systems to keep the heat in, and self-consumption energy production to help people generate their own power.

Of course, it’s always a good idea to do some market research before diving headfirst into any new product offerings. 

But hey, with a little creativity and a willingness to adapt, eCommerce businesses can thrive in this changing energy landscape.

2. Digital Waste

According to Prabhakar Raghavan, the vice president of Google, 40% of Generation Z is using TikTok or Instagram to search for things instead of Google. 

It’s wild to think about how much social media is taking over our lives! And this is just one TikTok statistic.

Speaking of which, there’s been a growing concern about children’s addiction to social networks lately. 

But don’t worry, options for limiting their use are increasing too. 

We all need to find that balance between staying connected with friends and family online and living in the real world.

One way that social media is changing is that algorithms are rewarding quality over quantity. 

That means that real and authentic content is becoming more valuable than ever before. No more fake posturing and endless selfies!

Have you heard about BeReal? It’s a new social network where people share their daily lives in 2-minute videos, without any filters or editing. 

It’s a refreshing change from all the overly-curated content we’re used to seeing on other platforms.

So, what’s the opportunity for eCommerce in all of this? Well, it’s all about collective experiences and leisure. 

We all need to take a break from our screens every now and then, and that’s where eCommerce can come in. 

By offering products that encourage interaction and take us away from our devices, eCommerce businesses can tap into this growing trend.

Think about products that bring people together, like board games or outdoor activities. Or, products that promote relaxation and self-care, like bath bombs or candles. 

And let’s not forget to mention that TikTok can be a great way for an online business to get visibility and thrive during these times.

There are so many possibilities! Just remember to stay authentic and real, and you’ll be sure to capture the attention of the next generation.

3. Artificial Intelligence

AI is playing a huge role in shaping the future of online shopping. 

It’s a pretty exciting time since 84% of eCommerce businesses are working on implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their business according to Statista. 

One of the coolest things about AI in eCommerce is its ability to help businesses generate content quickly and easily. 

Tools like ChatGPT, DALL-E, and Midjourney can create text and images in no time, which is great news for busy online stores!

But AI isn’t just useful for content creation. It can also be used for:

• personalized product recommendations
• price optimization
• customer service with chatbots

Imagine having a chatbot that can help you find what you’re looking for in a snap – it’s definitely a game-changer!

And that’s not all. AI is also making waves in the marketing world. 

From targeted ads to predictive analytics, it’s helping eCommerce businesses reach their customers in new and exciting ways.

Overall, AI is a trend that’s changing the face of eCommerce. It’s definitely something to keep an eye on if you’re in the industry. 

4. Healthy Diets

Did you know that according to The NDP Group, 86% of the population claims to be more concerned than ever about maintaining a healthy and balanced diet? 

It’s true! It seems like having a fit and toned body has become a sort of status symbol these days.

But hey, this trend isn’t all bad news! In fact, it presents a fantastic opportunity for the eCommerce world. 

Not just in the food sector, but also in the supplements industry or even in the technologies that can help us achieve our health goals.

After all, as the saying goes, “we are what we eat.” And let’s not forget about the age-old adage of “mens sana in corpore sano” (a healthy mind in a healthy body). 

It’s clear that this trend is here to stay, and I can’t wait to see how it will shape the future of eCommerce.

5. When the Party’s Over

Have you noticed how parties these days are getting bigger and more extravagant? It’s crazy! 

But it seems like the trend is shifting towards a more chill vibe. People are starting to crave a sense of calm and relaxation, especially after all the partying.

Airbnb has taken notice of this and has started testing out “anti-party” technology in the U.S. and Canada to prevent any crazy party shenanigans from happening.

On the eCommerce front, it seems like there’s a growing demand for more affordable party options. 

Subscription-based jewelry rental and themed kits with clothing, accessories, and decorations for birthdays and bridal showers are gaining popularity.

I guess it’s safe to say that we’re all looking for ways to party without breaking the bank or getting too wild. Here’s to finding that perfect balance!

6. Going for Low-Cost

It’s no surprise that the low-cost fashion industry is booming especially with the high inflation rates all over the world.

But hold on a minute, let’s not forget that there’s also a large percentage of people who care about sustainable and fair trade practices that avoid human exploitation.

To strike a balance between affordability and sustainability, it’s important to have a good cross-selling strategy for trending products in your online store. 

This not only benefits the business but also makes it easier for customers to find fashionable and eco-friendly options.

While this trend affects the fashion and beauty eCommerce sector, we should keep in mind that choosing low-cost options shouldn’t justify excessive consumption. 

It’s important to be aware of possible malpractices by brands and take individual responsibility when making purchasing decisions.

So, let’s keep our eyes open and do our part to support sustainable and ethical practices in the fashion industry.

7. Emotional Refuge

In recent years, people have just been feeling more overworked, stressed, and just like their overall quality of life isn’t at its prime.

But, you know what they say: when there’s a problem, there’s also an opportunity. 

This trend opens up a huge door in the eCommerce world for all kinds of products that can help create shelters and spaces for relaxation and mindfulness.

Including nature in our usual spaces has been shown to have a positive impact on our mental and physical well-being. 

So, having a catalog of products that can help build those calming spaces, and satisfy the need for moments of tranquility, would be incredibly beneficial.

Let’s not forget, though, that seeking professional help for mental health is just as important. 

And luckily, the normalization of seeing mental health professionals is becoming a trend in itself.

So, let’s take care of our mental health and make sure to create spaces where we can feel calm and relaxed. 

And if we need extra help, there’s no shame in seeking it out.

8. Generation in Crisis

It seems like every time we turn on the news, there’s another crisis to deal with. 

It’s enough to make anyone feel hopeless, especially the younger generation that has been facing these challenges since 2008. 

But here’s the thing: not everything has to be doom and gloom. 

In fact, I believe that there’s a huge opportunity for eCommerce businesses to spread more positive messages and find ways to communicate in a more uplifting manner. 

Now’s the time for businesses to promote positive change and make a real difference.

By focusing on positive messages and finding creative solutions, we can help the younger generation overcome these challenges and create a brighter future for everyone.

9. Digital Business

I’ve got some exciting news for you about the future of retail spending. 

According to Accenture, by 2025, generations Z and millennials will be responsible for 62% of global retail spending. That’s a lot of buying power!

Now, let’s talk about the impact of hyperconnectivity on eCommerce trends. 

One of the latest trends is using social networks as a direct sales channel. It’s all about live shopping or live commerce. 

This means presenting a product in a live stream and giving viewers the opportunity to buy it right then and there.

Live shopping provides a dynamic shopping experience that clears up any doubts customers may have about the product. 

Plus, it helps to strengthen the bond between the brand and the customer. It’s a win-win situation!

If you want to be a successful online store, you can’t ignore these eCommerce trends. 

Knowing what the best-selling products are on the internet and leveraging live shopping is crucial to stand out from the competition and give your marketing techniques a fresh twist.

10. Data Protection

Cisco recently conducted a survey and found that 86% of people are worried about the safety of their personal data. 

It’s definitely something that’s been on a lot of our minds lately.

Interestingly, almost half of those surveyed (47%) said they would switch providers if they felt their privacy and data management policies were lacking. 

It just goes to show that customers really care about this stuff and are willing to take action to protect themselves.

In related news, Google Chrome recently made a big announcement that they’ll be phasing out support for third-party cookies by 2023. 

This is a game changer for sure, and it’s not just limited to eCommerce. Everyone who conducts business online will need to adapt to this new reality.

So, businesses will have to work harder to collect data directly from their customers, rather than relying on third-party sources. 

This can be done through things like questionnaires, customer satisfaction surveys, or registrations – as long as customers give their consent, of course.

All in all, it’s a new era for online privacy and data management. 

But as long as businesses are transparent and take steps to protect their customers’ information, we should all be able to navigate these changes together.

11. Marketplaces Are Sold Out

It’s becoming less and less of a secret that businesses are realizing they don’t need to rely solely on selling on Amazon to make bank. Yup, you heard that right. 

Sales commissions on Amazon’s marketplace are rising like a loaf of bread in the oven, but companies are discovering that they can make just as much (if not more) money by focusing on their own online stores instead.

I mean, who wouldn’t want to have more control over their own business, right? 

Plus, there are tons of solutions out there to help overcome any hurdles that might pop up when setting up shop solo, like payment methods, logistics, and eCommerce platforms. It’s all about finding the right fit for your business.

Iván Navas, CEO of Doofinder, summed it up perfectly when he chatted with Andrés Barreto: it’s time to put your energy into conversion optimization. 

So, whether you’re already running your own online store or you’re thinking about taking the plunge, there’s no better time than now to start giving your business the attention it deserves!

12. Where Is the Talent?

Did you hear the news? The percentage of professionals quitting their jobs hit an all-time high between January and June 2022.

It seems like more and more people are prioritizing flexible schedules, emotional pay, and work-life balance over just a steady paycheck.

And companies are going to have to adapt if they want to keep up with the times.

Gone are the days when employees just showed up and did what they were told – nowadays, they want to feel like their work is making a difference and that they’re being valued for their skills and contributions. 

And if a company can’t provide that, well… it looks like they might be saying goodbye to some talented team members.

This shift in priorities also means that soft skills like emotional intelligence, communication, and adaptability are becoming more important than ever. 

So, as we move towards increased automation and technological advancements, it’s clear that companies that prioritize their people will be the ones that come out on top.

And hey, this isn’t just a trend for traditional businesses – the eCommerce sector is feeling the effects too. 

So, whether you’re a CEO or an online shop owner, it’s time to start thinking about how you can create a work environment that attracts and retains top talent.

13. Inclusion

A recent study published by LEGO states that 71% of both boys and girls are worried about being bullied for playing with toys that are typically associated with the opposite gender. That’s a pretty concerning statistic, don’t you think?

Well, it looks like LEGO is taking action to combat these gender stereotypes in their toys. 

They’re not the only ones either – more and more brands are embracing a non-binary approach to their products. It’s definitely a step in the right direction!

It’s interesting to see how this movement is affecting different industries. 

eCommerce sectors like fashion, cosmetics, beauty, and of course, toys, are all set to shake up the traditional gender norms. 

It’s definitely a hot topic that’s causing a bit of polarization, but it’s a conversation that needs to be had. 

It’s inevitable that certain brands will position themselves accordingly.

It’s heartening to see companies like LEGO taking a stand and promoting inclusivity. Who knows what other positive changes we’ll see in the future?

14. Second-Hand

Have you noticed the rise of reCommerce or the second-hand market lately? 

It’s becoming more and more popular around the world, and it’s not hard to see why. 

With people’s purchasing power dwindling, it’s only natural for them to turn to second-hand options. 

Plus, it’s great for the environment and fits perfectly into a sustainable and circular economy.

One of the coolest things about this type of business is that both product and user opinions are highly valued. And it makes sense, right? 

If you’re buying something second-hand, you want to know what others think about it.

Take Intimissimi, an Italian clothing store, for example. They’ve been offering discounts of $3 on the next purchase for every bra that’s delivered. 

It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved: they get more business, and you get a little extra cash for your next purchase.

eCommerce Trends and Opinions

Some of these eCommerce trends might not be a surprise, but others could’ve been a total shock!

It’s important to remember that these trends aren’t just opinions, they’re actually based on observations of real-world events and conversations happening right now. 

And they’re definitely having an impact on the market and the way we shop online.

So, which eCommerce trends are worth paying attention to? Well, it all depends on your sector or business. 

Some of them might be more relevant than others. The key is to choose carefully and stay informed.

But one thing is for sure: eCommerce is constantly evolving, and we need to keep up with the changes if we want to stay competitive. 

So, let’s buckle up and get ready to ride the wave of these exciting trends! Be sure to download our FREE eCommerce trends infographic so that you don’t forget about any of these important trends for your online business!