Ecommerce trends to look out for in 2023

As another year passes by, online commerce continues to revolutionise retail. By the end of 2022, it is expected that the UK will reach nearly 60 million eCommerce users meaning now is more important than ever to look out for emerging trends to stand out in a crowded market.

This year we have seen significant changes in consumer behaviour due to a lurking recession and cost of living crisis, but eCommerce sales continue to soar with a predicted market annual growth rate of 11.38 per cent per year.

With that in mind, eCommerce remains an important asset for both small businesses and large organisations to boost brand awareness, maximise profits, and keep up with consumer shopping habits.

Here are the top eCommerce marketing trends to look out and prepare for in 2023.

Mobile shopping to accelerate

Mobile commerce is set to dominate the UK eCommerce scene in 2023 by overtaking desktop purchasing. Studies show that during the second quarter of 2022, 66 per cent of all online purchases were made via a mobile device.

Shopping via mobile is both easy and convenient allowing consumers to make purchases anywhere at any time.

Wise sellers will take a mobile-first approach to their eCommerce selling sites to provide a seamless experience for mobile users.

Mobile websites should be user-friendly and optimised for a mobile experience, while SMS and mobile marketing should be pushed to reach consumers.

Furthermore, investing in mobile apps also allows for an easy payment and checkout experience allowing consumers to purchase through mobile wallets, Google Pay, and Apple Pay.

Visual commerce on the rise

In 2022, visual commerce and live shopping have become key players in the eCommerce game due to new shopping features such as TikTok Live Shop.

Ecommerce company Etsy is already actively encouraging sellers to create visual commerce as previous research suggests shoppers are more likely to purchase an item if the listing includes a video.

Smart sellers will leverage visual commerce and live shopping to attract, engage, and influence consumers.

Innovative online features allow savvy brands to directly interact with consumers, present and demonstrate products, and engage consumers through compelling visual materials.

Buyers can ask questions in real-time to eliminate consumer concerns and purchase live from the broadcast, an emerging eCommerce experience.

Social media continues to play its part

As more and more consumers begin to trust social media platforms and feel comfortable making purchases through social media apps, social commerce is predicted to climb in 2023.

To capitalise on this trend, sellers should integrate social media within their business growth strategy to encourage sales and attract new customers through an untapped online community.

Research also suggests that younger generations of today are more likely to search for everything from recipes and recommendations to products and services via social.

Millennials and Gen Z are the driving force behind this search shift to target this audience sellers should embrace social media and improve their presence.

However, Gen X and baby boomers shouldn’t be dismissed on these platforms as stats show this age group are also becoming increasingly active and savvy on social media.

An increased focus on post-purchase experience

For the consumer in 2023 eCommerce will be about much more than the initial purchase as the focus shifts to their post-purchase experience.

With 69 per cent of people saying the ability to track an order after a purchase is one of their top three considerations when shopping online, and 75 per cent who say they would be very likely to shop more with a site than made returns easy, the post-purchase experience is key for eCommerce success.

As the eCommerce space becomes crowded, providing your consumer with exceptional customer service from their first click up until delivery is crucial. After all, a strong post-purchase strategy encourages repeat engagement, referrals, and consequently, sales.

Sellers who implement post-purchase touchpoints, such as updating tracking information, offering on-hand customer support, and ensuring customer satisfaction will see the best results from this trend.

Consumers prepare to buy less and research more

In an uncertain economic climate, consumers are expected to scale back spending and make more considered commitments in 2023.

As consumers prepare to tighten their money belts as they head into 2023, 81 per cent of shoppers begin to research products, brands and businesses to make informed and meaningful purchases.

Ecommerce sellers who successfully deliver the benefits of their products and services, provide extraordinary customer support, and ensure consumer satisfaction will find consumers become committed to their brand.

When the consumer is doubtful of all that is around, go above and beyond to make them feel safe and retain their custom.

At Unicorn Accounting our team of specialist e-commerce accountants are on hand to discuss your eCommerce accounting needs.

To maximise the growth of our eCommerce store, get in touch with Unicorn Accounting today.

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