Consumer habits and trends change daily and constantly revolutionize the industry. On March 31st, the Retail Forum 2022 took place in Madrid and Tlantic was present. In yet another great meeting in the retail sector, innovation and technology were confirmed as the present and future of the segment.
The bet on digital channels with the aim of generating an omnichannel experience, compiling online and offline channels was a trend that came from 2021 and is here to stay. So, let's talk about trends and what was seen there?
Sustainability: concern for the environment is increasingly seen in the retail sector. Recyclable packaging, sustainable production models and recyclable products are increasingly a reality. The focus on something different in the area of sustainability has been a focus and a challenge for retail, from partnerships with non-profit organizations to organizational changes, this aspect is here to stay.
Second-hand goods: The circular economy is increasingly important these days and the industry is aware of it. They are increasingly focusing on second-hand products, as is the case with IKEA, which is currently focusing on the strategy of buying products from customers, thus recovering IKEA products that customers no longer use.
Cashierless stores: this trend that started in 2021, continues to grow in 2022. Focusing on a better experience for the consumer, and on their convenience, many retail brands are already thinking about this sales aspect and some are already betting on the implementation of stores without cashiers.
Artificial intelligence: technology will always be side by side with retail. The use of autonomous vehicles, drones, augmented reality and virtual reality will be a factor that the consumer will look for in a good store experience.
Metaverse: The change based on turning the store into a mixed experience, triggering the store's appearance in the metaverse. An example of this is Benetton's participation in Milan Fashion Week in 2022, in which, instead of betting on sales, they bet on the customer experience, through games that allowed the accumulation of QR codes, which can be used to make purchases. later in their physical stores.