The Next Era of Ecommerce: Key Trends and Strategies for 2025
In developed regions such as North America and Europe, the ecommerce market has moved past its rapid growth phase, but it continues to evolve. The online retail industry has become a mature market and is forcing competing businesses to prioritize innovation and quality over sheer numbers.
To help you better navigate the evolving ecommerce landscape, we conducted a large-scale study on fresh consumer trends in November 2024. We surveyed over 8,000 consumers and 400 senior decision-makers at ecommerce businesses across Europe, North America, and Australia and combined our results with official national statistics to create the Ecommerce Delivery Benchmark Report 2025.
Here’s what we found!
The Online Inflection Point
Previous predictions that ecommerce would completely overtake physical retail were inaccurate. We found that 54% of consumers plan to shop more in-store in 2025, compared to 31% who prefer online shopping.
Bridging the Online-In-Store Gap With More Delivery Options
Transition from a solely online retail model to a hybrid model can be challenging financially and logistically. You may want to explore partnerships and collaborations with established physical retailers. Consider pop-up stores or brand collaborations, where consumers can see and test the product in-person before ordering online.
Other hybrid experiences include click-and-collect and in-store returns for a simpler supply chain. By sharing the financial burden of new infrastructure, you can continue to prioritize fast and affordable local and international shipping options for younger consumers, who may still be recovering from recent economic hardships.
Shift Your Attention to the Post-Purchase Phase
Today’s consumers are selective. They’re also less concerned with brand loyalty compared to older generations. Our survey found that 62% of consumers under 35 value their shopping experience as a whole and won’t hesitate to switch brands if their expectations aren’t met.
One particular discrepancy we found between surveyed decision-makers and consumers is the role of AI. Companies are investing heavily in AI-powered algorithms for targeted marketing and suggestions, but consumers prefer to enhance their post-purchase and delivery experiences. 11% of consumers reported that real-time tracking and proactive updates are the most important aspects of online shopping.
Revolutionizing Delivery Logistics With AI
Despite 72% of retail businesses reporting AI investments in several operational areas, they focus on pre-sale and administrative operations. However, meeting customer expectations is crucial for staying ahead of overseas competition, like Shein and Temu, both of which can offer exceptionally low prices and a massive catalog of options.
Upgrading infrastructure and order-fulfillment systems can be expensive and time-consuming, but integrated digital tools, predictive technologies, and optimized shipping routes have the potential to significantly enhance post-purchase experiences.
When you meet customer expectations for every delivery, you provide convenience — which 17% of consumers reported as a top priority. AI can make the most impact here thanks to tools like ShipStation, which offers advanced delivery management and real-time shipment tracking solutions for timely deliveries and efficient returns.
Expanding Your Reach and Going International
With 83% of consumers making purchases on marketplaces and social media platforms, you have more eyes on your products than ever. Whether it’s TikTok Shop or Instagram Shopping, 73% of online businesses reported plans to expand their global reach in 2025.
While growth in matured and established markets like North America and Europe is slowing down, there’s plenty of room for expansion in developing markets. Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America are expected to be “high-growth” regions for online retail, particularly for tech, apparel, and luxury goods.
International market growth underlines the need for adaptive ecommerce platforms. Consider multi-language support, compliance with local tax and customs regulations, and multi-currency payment systems to streamline checkout for international buyers.
Leading the Charge With Cutting-Edge Tech
Retailers categorized as “Tech Trailblazers” that heavily invest in integrating AI in logistics saw three times the growth in 2024 compared to companies with less AI integration in their operations. Join the club and double your growth by 2028 with the help of ShipStation: Sign up for a free trial today!
Get the full Ecommerce Delivery Benchmark Report 2025 to help you plan your next move.
