A bite-size digital business magazine from DraytonPartners
Six in 60

WELCOME TO THE EVERYWHERE MALL – ‘Digital Twins, Deja You,’ and ‘Netflexing.’ The six key shopping trends of 2030. A retail future foretold.

While watching Netflix, you will have the ability to freeze the frame, tap on a character’s outfit from your smartphone, and access links to instantly purchase the items.

The bravest inhabitants of Aldous Huxley’s dystopian novel Brave New World were almost certainly those who attempted to predict the future. So, here goes nothing:

Deja You - In 2030, product discovery experts Syte say “real-time shopper behavioural data will allow in-store staff to know pertinent information about each individual who enters the shop.” Instantly interacting as if they’ve already met you.

Digital Twins - Futurice, a digital transformation company, predict widespread use of ‘digital twins.’ Exact digital replicas of a retailer’s customers. Offering deep “simulations that show how their customer segments would behave in different scenarios.”

Think then blink - Syte expect smart eyewear to finally become ubiquitous: “Advanced visual AI will allow wearers to instantly identify the brand, price, and stock levels of any fashion or home decor items they spot – both in-store and on the street.” A simple blink or wink might facilitate a purchase.

Brand Love? - Strategists Data Clarity suggest, “Emotionally connected buyers will be more valuable than highly satisfied ones by 2030.” So, consumer relationships with brands may become even deeper. More like love.

Netflexing - Syte again: “While watching Netflix, you will have the ability to freeze the frame, tap on a character’s outfit from your smartphone, and access links to instantly purchase the items.”

Happy Eating - Futurice predict the rise of “food-as-a-service solution.” Real-time personal data will be linked directly to food delivery. A consumer’s current physical and mental health triggers the arrival of a nutritional solution to their body’s current needs.

All in all, a brave new world, indeed.