The world of e-commerce is fast-paced and extremely dynamic. Nevertheless, there are a few emerging trends are that are not only growing in popularity but may also form the basis of a promising long-term business model:
• Flash Sales: Shopping clubs offering time-limited deals for registered members – a new idea inspired by a time-honoured retail concept. Vente-Privee, Rue La La and Vente- Exclusive have brought this concept back to life in the form of online sales. Flash Sales have great potential for expansion into niche and local markets.
• Daily Deals: Daily, limited-time offers, discounts and coupons for activities. Although since the launch of Groupon many clones have seen the light of day, it seems that consumer enthusiasm for spending has not been dampened. Also, new channels such as smartphones and tablets offer huge growth potential by facilitating networking with the local trade.
• Personalisation: Online trading should offer more than just a new way for a customer to buy something, as at a store. Shopping on the Internet can motivate customers to find products that fit perfectly with their personality and wishes. Directed marketing, tailor-made offers, customised products – personalisation is really a mega-trend, but should be rapidly absorbed into the basic vocabulary of every competitive online retailer.