If you’re anything like us at Ketchum, Killum & Wynn Creative Inc., you know the only thing constant in eCommerce is change. Whether it's Shopify's newest features or the next wave of "gotta-have-it" products, the landscape is always shifting, sometimes faster than we can say, "Add to cart." We know it's only Fall 2024, but as we look ahead to 2025, let's dive into the latest Shopify trends and the products we predict will dominate the eCommerce scene. And because we like to have a little fun around here, let's add some humor to this forecast, shall we?
1. AI-Powered Shopping Assistants: From Chatbots to Your Best Bots
Welcome to the future, where the robots aren’t taking over, they’re just making shopping easier! Shopify’s recent developments in AI have ushered in a wave of chatbots and personal shopping assistants that make navigating online stores a breeze for customers. These bots can answer questions, recommend products, and even close sales, all without breaking a digital sweat.
Why it matters for 2025: As AI continues to evolve, expect these digital assistants to get smarter. Imagine a customer logging into your Shopify store and instantly being greeted by a bot that knows exactly what they want because it's read their minds (OK, not quite, but close enough). Customers will expect more personalized, concierge-level service, and these bots will be the key to giving them exactly that. If you want to add an AI assisted bot your own store, reach out to one of our friendly tech girls for an estimate to save you time and money.
What to sell: If you're not already capitalizing on AI integration tools and apps, it's time to start. Bonus points if you sell your own AI-powered tools or integrate them seamlessly into your product pages. But if AI isn’t your jam, use these assistants to upsell all the extras—accessories, add-ons, and gift bundles.
2. The Year of Sustainability: Eco-Friendly Everything
Remember the days when "green" meant something you ate at a salad bar? Fast forward to 2025, and sustainability is no longer a trend—it’s a requirement. Shopify merchants are embracing this shift as consumers increasingly demand eco-friendly, ethically sourced products. Shopify's growing suite of tools helps sellers highlight sustainable practices, from carbon offset shipping to biodegradable packaging options.
Why it matters for 2025: As the younger generations gain purchasing power, sustainability isn’t just a selling point—it’s a dealbreaker. If your store isn’t shouting, "We love the planet!" in neon letters (well, maybe not neon, because that’s not very eco-friendly), you’re already behind.
What to sell: Jump on the green bandwagon with products like biodegradable phone cases, reusable kitchen wraps, eco-friendly fashion (hemp is making a comeback, folks), and sustainable beauty products. In fact, if you can slap "eco" in front of it and it’s even remotely plausible, you’ll probably sell it in 2025. Don't forget to let your Shopify store's copy reflect your green heart—shout out your zero-waste initiatives and use sustainable imagery.
If you need help sourcing products, or help adding your own products, Ketchum, Killum & Wynn Creative Inc., offer cost effective monthly support and Shopify help plans. Explore Shopify Support plans here.
3. Subscription Models: Because Who Doesn't Love Getting Stuff in the Mail?
Subscriptions are not going anywhere. In fact, they're getting even more popular. Whether it’s monthly curated boxes of gourmet snacks, new workout gear, or even quirky niche items like “cat costumes for introverts” (yes, that’s a thing—look it up), subscriptions are here to stay. Shopify continues to improve its subscription functionalities, making it easier than ever to set up and manage recurring purchases.
Why it matters for 2025: Consumers love the thrill of an anticipated delivery. In 2025, shoppers will expect to subscribe to everything—from coffee and skincare to, well, pretty much anything you can think of. The recurring revenue model is a game-changer for merchants because it brings stability and predictability in what can otherwise be a rollercoaster ride of seasonal spikes.
What to sell: Look into consumable products that people need to reorder regularly—think coffee beans, vitamins, beauty products, and pet supplies. Better yet, niche it down. Is there a growing trend in vegan-only makeup or a box for gourmet dog treats made from organic kale? In 2025, it's all about specialized subscription services that cater to micro-communities.
4. Shopify and Social Commerce: Let the Scroll to Buy Frenzy Begin
TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest—you name it, social platforms are no longer just places to go for a dopamine hit—they're fully functional shopping ecosystems. With Shopify's latest updates in social commerce, merchants can sell directly on these platforms, making the transition from "Oh, that's cute!" to "I must buy this now!" smoother than ever.
Why it matters for 2025: Social media is the new shopping mall, and in 2025, the line between "browsing for entertainment" and "shopping for real" will blur even further. Merchants who leverage Shopify’s deep integration with social platforms will find themselves ahead of the competition, turning followers into customers faster than you can say “double-tap.”
What to sell: Visual products thrive in the social commerce space. If you can create eye-catching, Instagrammable goods—think fashion, home décor, beauty products, and gadgets—you’re set. You could even sell trendy, personalized items like monogrammed travel gear or pet accessories. Just make sure your visuals pop, because social shoppers are all about the aesthetic.
If you're looking to freshen up your website before all of the new traffic starts rolling in, check out our Shopify Website Audit and Review package. This written report covers the crucial first 8 seconds of "impression"and we'll suggest design revamps, highlight usability no-nos, and uncover sneaky artificial frictions that might be scaring your customers away. Plus, we’ll dish out conversion tips, SEO tweaks, and social media strategies to boost those lagging conversion rates.
5. Augmented Reality (AR): Try Before You Buy
Who doesn’t love a good "try-before-you-buy" scenario? Shopify's AR capabilities are making it easier than ever for shoppers to visualize products in their own space. From virtual dressing rooms to furniture placement, AR is changing the way people shop online.
Why it matters for 2025: In a world where eCommerce can feel impersonal, AR brings a tactile element to online shopping. Consumers love seeing how a couch will look in their living room or trying on a pair of sunglasses without leaving the house. It's an interactive experience that engages customers and reduces returns, making everyone (including your accountant) happy.
What to sell: Consider selling products that can leverage AR for visualization. Furniture, home décor, clothing, and even cosmetics are excellent options. Imagine selling makeup where users can "test" a lipstick shade in real-time before adding it to their cart. Not only does it boost sales, but it also gives customers a sense of confidence in their purchase.
6. Voice Search: Your New Best Friend
The days of typing out long-winded search queries are coming to an end. With the rise of smart speakers and voice-activated search, consumers are simply talking their way through shopping. Shopify merchants should optimize their stores for voice search because—newsflash—no one types anymore.
Why it matters for 2025: By 2025, it’s predicted that a large chunk of online shopping will be conducted through voice search. As Siri and Alexa continue to hone their listening skills (and likely their shopping habits), your Shopify store needs to be optimized for how people speak rather than how they type.
What to sell: Focus on products with easy-to-pronounce names and brands that are recognizable through voice. Also, think convenience—items that people are likely to reorder or quickly add to their cart. Voice search will work especially well for consumables, groceries, and household products.
Conclusion: The future of Shopify in 2025 is filled with exciting possibilities, from AI shopping assistants to augmented reality and the rise of sustainability. At Ketchum, Killum & Wynn Creative Inc., we’re ready to help you navigate these trends with ease and maybe a few laughs along the way. So, buckle up and get ready—eCommerce in 2025 is going to be one wild ride, but don’t worry, we’ve got your back (and your Shopify store).
