RESEARCH
RETAIL TRENDS IN 2021 IGD
THE FIVE RETAIL TRENDS TO PREPARE FOR IN 2021
D
IGD HAS HIGHLIGHTED THE FIVE KEY TRENDS IT BELIEVES WILL SHAPE 2021, AS TOBY PICKARD HIGHLIGHTS BELOW.
riving online profitability, creating safe shopping spaces, and bringing the out-ofhome experience in-home are among the key trends expected to shape global retail in 2021, according to new predictions from IGD.
1. SYSTEM UPGRADE: DIGITALLY ENHANCING OPERATIONS Introduction of digital technologies that have a low capital investment and are easy to update Partnerships with third-party technology providers to speed up new tech introduction More use of machine learning and artificial intelligence at store level to drive revenue and increase customer satisfaction
4. HOLISTIC HEALTH: SUPPORTING HEALTH AND WELLNESS Greater focus from shoppers on hygiene and sanitation products for individuals and the home Retailers and brands trying to differentiate themselves by helping shoppers and consumers live healthier lives More tailored solutions in-store, either through assistants or using digital tools like apps
5. RECUPERATIVE RETAIL: FOCUSING ON SUSTAINABILITY
With climate change remaining a top priority, IGD expects retailers globally to push ahead with initiatives to support goals in this area 2. ESCALATING E-COMMERCE: DRIVING Continued implementation globally of initiatives to ONLINE AND PROFITABILITY reduce plastic and food waste Retailers seeking to reduce their overall operating costs to Initiatives to build trust, loyalty and better relationships accommodate online, improving processes and automation with shoppers, staff and communities Encouraging shoppers towards click and collect Toby Pickard, Head of Innovation and Futures at IGD, Retailers assessing the options for rapid delivery, for said: “The industry faced unprecedented challenges and had example the same day or in a few hours to adapt to ever changing government policies, and shopper and consumer behaviour changes. 3. MAKING A MEAL OF IT: CREATING “When planning for 2021, companies should consider INSPIRATION AND EXCITEMENT the two main variable factors from the pandemic: Retailers creating inspiring meal solutions for all the potential path of the virus (from a relatively READ A occasions manageable virus to multiple outbreaks with SAMPLE OF Retailers seeking to capture shopper spend lockdowns) and performance of the economy THE FULL that was previously taking place out of home REPORT (from an economic performance that quickly recovers to a hard-hit economy slow to rebuild).”
WEDNESDAY 20TH JANUARY 2021 / ISSUE 39 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 21
