The ecommerce market is shifting and evolving rapidly as we move into 2025. Financially savvy consumers are leading the charge, demanding better value, more seamless shopping experiences, and increased convenience.
Inflation and economic uncertainty have made consumers more mindful of spending, driving significant changes in online shopping behavior. For brands and retailers, recognizing ecommerce trends and how they differ from traditional retail can help them stay ahead of the game and adapt to sudden shifts. That means prioritizing cost savings, omnichannel accessibility, and personalization to enhance the customer journey in the online space!
Key Ecommerce Trends in 2025
Some top ecommerce trends in 2025 are starting to shift to more thrifty, eco-conscious options. Let’s explore more online shopping trends 2025 can expect, and find out how your business can maximize its gains.
1. Financially Conscious Consumers Are Changing the Market
With financial stress on the rise, online shoppers are making more strategic purchasing decisions. Essentials take precedence over discretionary spending, as consumers actively compare prices, seek discounts, and take advantage of cashback programs like Rakuten.
Debt relief options and flexible payment plans, like Affirm and Klarna, are also in demand, allowing consumers to spread out costs without the burden of large upfront payments. As a result, ecommerce brands that offer loyalty rewards and cost-saving incentives will gain a competitive edge in the global ecommerce market.
2. Seamless Omnichannel Experiences Are Expected
Modern consumers expect a frictionless experience across all shopping channels. A purchase could begin on social media, continue with online research, and end in a physical store. To accommodate this behavior, ecommerce platforms are integrating unified online and offline shopping experiences.
Social commerce on platforms like Instagram and TikTok is booming, allowing users to discover and buy products without leaving their favorite apps.
3. ROPO (Research Online, Purchase Offline) & BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store) Are Expanding
Similarly, buy-online-pick-up-in-store (BOPIS) services, which blossomed in 2020, have become a staple for major online retailers, giving customers the flexibility to secure online deals while avoiding shipping costs. Consistent branding across these digital and in-person experiences is crucial for maintaining consumer trust and loyalty.
4. Social Commerce & Livestream Shopping Are Driving Engagement
Social media is no longer just a marketing tool but a full-fledged shopping platform. TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest are leading the way in product discovery, especially for budget-conscious consumers seeking the best deals.
Livestream shopping is also gaining traction, allowing brands to showcase products in real-time, interact with potential buyers, and offer exclusive discounts. These live demonstrations give consumers a more immersive online shopping experience, mimicking the in-store experience while maintaining the convenience of shopping online.
Source: Canva
5. Mobile-First UX Design Is a Must
With nearly 60% of all purchases now made on mobile devices, ecommerce businesses must prioritize a mobile-first user experience (UX) in their app and/or website design. This approach ensures that the online shopping experience is seamless, intuitive, and efficient for mobile users.
Key strategies include:
- One-click checkout: Implementing streamlined checkout processes like one-click purchasing reduces friction and cart abandonment rates. Integrating digital wallets and flexible payment options caters to consumer preferences for quick and secure transactions.
- Responsive, easy-to-use mobile experiences: Mobile interfaces must be responsive and user-friendly to make shopping easier. Direct navigation, fast loading times, and clear calls to action contribute to a positive mobile shopping experience.
- AI-driven search & recommendations: Leveraging artificial intelligence to provide personalized search results and product recommendations enhances user engagement and satisfaction, leading to higher conversion rates.
By focusing on these elements, ecommerce brands can meet and exceed consumer expectations, fostering loyalty and driving sales in an increasingly mobile-centric market.
Learn more: How a Global Pandemic Made Us Rethink Web UX
6. AI Is Enhancing Personalization & Customer Experience
AI is revolutionizing ecommerce by making shopping experiences more intuitive. AI-driven product recommendations help online shoppers discover relevant products based on browsing history, preferences, and past purchases. Chatbots and virtual assistants offer instant support, answering common questions and streamlining the buying process without human intervention.
Retailers also leverage AI for dynamic pricing, adjusting prices based on demand, competitor pricing, and customer behavior. This ensures competitive pricing while maximizing revenue. AI also enhances fraud detection and security, protecting consumers and businesses from cyber threats.
As AI technology advances, ecommerce brands that embrace these innovations will provide superior shopping experiences and build stronger customer relationships. Additionally, AI can help with research and content ideas for your business that are geared to your target audience.
7. Sustainability Is a Consumer Priority
Sustainability is no longer a niche concern; it’s a critical factor in purchasing decisions, with approximately 79% of American consumers prioritizing sustainability.
It’s clear that today’s consumers want environmentally responsible products, and ecommerce brands are responding by reducing waste and minimizing their carbon footprint. Many retailers are adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions, such as biodegradable materials, minimalist designs, and reusable options, to meet consumer expectations.
Beyond packaging, brands invest in carbon-neutral shipping programs and sustainable supply chains. Some retailers offer incentives for shoppers who choose slower, more eco-friendly shipping methods.
Additionally, resale and refurbishment programs are gaining traction, allowing consumers to buy pre-owned or refurbished goods at a discount, reducing waste and extending the life cycle of products. Businesses that successfully integrate sustainability into their operations will not only attract eco-conscious customers but also contribute to long-term environmental change.
8. Cross-Selling Is More Important Than Ever
Maximizing customer lifetime value is a top priority for ecommerce brands, and cross-selling plays a vital role in achieving this. By strategically recommending complementary products, retailers can encourage larger purchases and enhance customer satisfaction. For example, when a shopper buys a smartphone, they may be presented with relevant accessories, such as protective cases, wireless chargers, and extended warranties.
Bundled deals are another effective strategy, where consumers can purchase multiple related items at a discounted rate. This approach increases order value and provides convenience for shoppers.
AI-powered recommendation engines can make cross-selling even more effective by analyzing customer behavior and suggesting relevant add-ons at checkout. As competition intensifies in ecommerce, businesses implementing smart cross-selling techniques will see higher conversions and stronger customer loyalty.
Source: Canva
9. Subscription Models Gain Popularity
Subscription-based ecommerce is booming, offering consumers convenience, cost savings, and exclusive perks. Auto-replenishment services are especially popular in categories like groceries, personal care, and pet supplies, ensuring consumers never run out of essential items.
This model removes frequent repurchasing and streamlines the customer experience. Most Canadians have about eight recurring subscriptions for various services.
Many ecommerce brands also introduce subscription memberships with VIP benefits, such as free shipping, early access to new products, and exclusive discounts. For businesses, subscriptions provide a predictable revenue stream and increase customer retention. As shoppers seek more ways to save and simplify their lives, subscription-based shopping is expected to continue gaining momentum, benefiting both consumers and retailers alike.
10. Customer Loyalty Programs Are Essential
With inflation tightening household budgets, loyalty programs are becoming a key strategy for retaining customers. Cashback programs, such as those offered by Rakuten, allow shoppers to earn rewards on everyday purchases, making it easier to justify spending. Many ecommerce brands are also introducing tiered loyalty memberships, where customers unlock higher levels of perks the more they shop.
Early access to sales, free shipping incentives, and personalized rewards are also driving engagement. Brands that tailor their loyalty programs to customer preferences—offering relevant discounts and incentives—are more likely to build lasting relationships and encourage repeat purchases.
In 2025, a strong loyalty program won’t just be a bonus. It will be a necessity for ecommerce success.
How Rakuten Helps Consumers Save in 2025
With online shopping trends increasingly centered around financial savings, Rakuten Canada makes it easier than ever for consumers to shop smarter. By offering cashback on major brands, exclusive discounts, and seamless savings through browser extensions and mobile apps, Rakuten empowers shoppers to maximize their budgets without compromising quality.
Rakuten’s partnerships with top online retailers ensure consumers can access deals across a wide range of categories, including fashion, electronics, groceries, and travel. In a time when financial consciousness is driving purchasing behavior, platforms like Rakuten provide a significant advantage to online shoppers looking to get the most value from their online shopping experiences and support Canadian businesses.
Maximize Savings with Ecommerce Trends in 2025
As we move further into 2025, the global ecommerce market is being reshaped by value-driven, financially savvy consumers. Ecommerce brands that prioritize affordability, seamless omnichannel experiences, and personalized shopping journeys will stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
With platforms like Rakuten offering cash back and exclusive savings, online shoppers have more opportunities than ever to shop smarter online while staying within their budgets. The future of ecommerce trends and businesses isn’t just about convenience—it’s about maximizing every dollar spent. Learn more about partnering with Rakuten today.
Need help with your marketing strategy for your ecommerce business? Reach out to The Influence Agency to learn how we can help!