The Future 100: 2025

The retail landscape is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer preferences and increasing competition.

To succeed in this dynamic environment, retailers must prioritize seamless digital experiences, create engaging in-store environments, and offer compelling value to both customers and retail partners. This report highlights key trends that will shape the future of retail in 2025 and beyond.

Discover the latest Retail trends!

Key trends include:

Digital Simplicity

76% of people say there’s too much clutter on most websites these days, and 71% are interested in the idea of an “information diet.” With people overwhelmed by information, brands are responding with simplicity.

Why it's interesting
In an era of information overload, retailers must prioritize clear, concise, and user-friendly online experiences. By simplifying website navigation, streamlining the checkout process, and providing easy access to essential information, retailers can improve customer satisfaction, reduce friction, and drive online sales.

Awesperiential Retail

Retailers are emphasizing “awesperiences” – immersive experiences that inspire a sense of wonder – to drive footfall and buck a wider downward trend. With stores and malls morphing into purveyors of awe, Asia is leading the way.

Why it's interesting
To compete with the convenience of online shopping, retailers must create engaging and memorable in-store experiences that draw customers in and inspire a sense of wonder. By incorporating immersive displays, interactive technologies, and unique events, retailers can transform their stores into destinations that offer more than just products.

Stressed Shelves

The battleground for brands has grown fiercer on the supermarket shelves. Retailers are trimming the number of lines they carry and, in the economic downturn, shoppers are trading down and adopting thriftier habits.

Why it's interesting
Brands must work harder to maintain their shelf space and demonstrate their value to both retailers and consumers. This requires a focus on innovation, quality, and effective communication of the unique benefits that their products offer.

We continue to see the need for brands to have a strong understanding of their customer data and behavior so they can unlock powerful segmentation strategies, delivering the experience customers want, where they want it.