With 67% of Americans shopping online at least once per month and 50% even weekly or more, e-commerce businesses are challenged to keep up with the rapid shift of customer expectations. A recent survey by leading online eyewear retailer SmartBuyGlasses reveals key trends in America’s online shopping desires.
Key findings include:
- 67% of Americans shop online at least once per month, and 50% even weekly or more.
- Americans are split on AI in online shopping: 48.75% express extreme discomfort with AI replacing human customer service.
- Nearly 70% of respondents value faster delivery, with Gen Z more willing to pay extra for it.
- 73% of Americans are willing to pay more for eco-friendly delivery, reflecting the growing importance of sustainable practices, especially among youngsters.
- Easy returns, exchanges, and virtual try-on features are top consumer priorities, showcasing a desire for an online in-store experience.
“The key to success in online retail lies in understanding your target audience and responding to their needs. Online consumers will expect services to be faster, more sustainable, and more immersive, and businesses that deliver these will thrive in the coming years,” says Federico Vanni, Head of Organic Marketing at SmartBuyGlasses.
The future of online shopping is fast, green, and immersive. Consumers imagine a world where they no longer browse—they step into virtual stores, consult experts, and try on products that will be delivered at lightning speed.
They know what they want. It’s up to retailers to find a way to deliver.
How retailers can deliver – and stay ahead
- Speed matters: investigate and streamline delivery processes to meet the demand for rapid shipping.
- Go green: adopt eco-friendly practices, such as carbon-neutral shipping and sustainable packaging.
- Embrace immersive experiences: implement technology such as virtual reality and live consultations to engage customers.
- Build trust with innovation: offer tools like virtual try-ons to give customers confidence in their purchases.
- Address AI concerns: be transparent about AI usage to build customer trust.
Going into 2025, it’s time to start embracing one or more of these strategies to meet evolving customer expectations and stay competitive in the ever-changing online marketplace.
