Retail & E-Commerce

Top 5 Personalization Trends in Retail for 2025

muna.abdulkader — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 14:00:14 +0000

Top 5 Personalization Trends in Retail for 2025 muna.abdulkader Fri, 02/14/2025 - 09:00

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It’s no secret that the retail sector is transforming at a breathtaking pace, driven by customer demand for highly tailored, meaningful experiences. While the concept of personalization itself isn’t revolutionary, the ways retailers are now bringing it to life go far beyond greeting shoppers by name or offering generic loyalty programs. Instead, technology, data analytics, and cultural nuance have converged to create shopping journeys that feel incredibly personal—no matter where your customers live.

These personalization trends are changing the future of retail and helping brands stand out in crowded markets. They drive everything from customer loyalty and retention to higher conversion rates and average order values. According to Shopify’s recent findings on personalization trends, over 70% of consumers say they’re more likely to shop with brands that recognize and address their individual preferences. If you’re not personalizing, you risk falling behind.

Language—The Foundation of Personalization

Today, engaging with customers in their native language is more than a courtesy—it’s an expectation. But true personalization goes beyond translating words; it demands an understanding of local cultures and customs.

Picture a global beauty retailer that not only translates product labels but thoughtfully adjusts instructions, promotional campaigns, and user reviews to reflect local practices. A skincare serum popular in the US, for instance, might be marketed differently in Japan, where consumers are laser-focused on ingredient transparency and looking for solutions tailored to humidity or pollution.

By investing in deeper localization—adapting language, visuals, and brand storytelling—retailers create a sense of familiarity that customers around the world truly appreciate.

Localizing each facet of the customer journey (from website copy to mobile apps to on-demand support) demonstrates respect and authenticity. This attentiveness drastically reduces returns, enhances brand reputation, and deepens loyalty among international shoppers. It’s a powerful differentiator that can spark long-term relationships and encourage repeat visits.

Predictive Personalization

Have you ever browsed an online store and suddenly felt it was reading your mind, serving up precisely the items you didn’t realize you needed? That’s the magic of predictive personalization at work.

By leveraging AI and big data analytics, retailers predict what a shopper might want next based on past browsing and purchase history. For example, an electronics store might highlight protective cases or chargers immediately after you buy a new smartphone, while a grocery delivery app could suggest a curated list of ingredients right before a local holiday—exactly when your fridge needs restocking.

In a world of real-time data and seasonal trends, this type of personalization helps brands stay nimble. However, compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR or CCPA remains crucial. Striking the balance between user convenience and data protection is key to building trust.

When done right, predictive personalization elevates customer satisfaction, optimizes inventory management, and gives brands an edge to adapt quickly to evolving preferences—ultimately creating a shopping experience that feels almost magical.

Personalized Rewards

The days of punch cards and generic point systems aren’t gone, but they’re certainly evolving. Retailers are finding new ways to make loyalty programs feel personal, relevant, and downright delightful. Imagine you’re a regular at your local coffee shop, always ordering oat milk lattes. One morning, you wake up to a notification offering free oat milk upgrades all week—just for you. Or maybe you’re subscribed to a clothing service that notices you’ve been eyeing a particular jacket. You get an exclusive invitation to shop an upcoming capsule collection before anyone else.

These experiences don’t just hand out freebies or discounts; they acknowledge customers’ unique tastes, hobbies, and cultural contexts. And when global brands localize these rewards—tying them to regional holidays or seasonal festivities—they can forge an emotional connection that standard one-size-fits-all programs simply can’t replicate. Personalized rewards ultimately help customers feel seen, valued, and more inclined to engage with the brand over the long haul.

By ensuring the linguistic and cultural accuracy of these campaigns, retailers can offer rewards that genuinely strike a chord in each market they serve. These tailored rewards not only increase engagement but can lead to lifetime loyalty.

Community Building for Deeper Customer Insights

Sometimes, the best way to understand customers is to listen—and communities provide an organic space for that dialogue.

Forward-thinking retailers create online forums, social media groups, and even in-person events that invite customers to share experiences, opinions, and feedback. An outdoor gear company, for instance, might sponsor local hiking meetups, then gather input on backpack durability in varied terrains. These insights can reveal the fine details that surveys or AI algorithms might overlook—like just how essential breathable fabrics are in a humid jungle climate.

This sense of community isn’t just for specialty brands. Fashion retailers encourage user-generated content (UGC), such as styling tips or outfit-of-the-day selfies. Over time, these spaces build a dedicated following of enthusiastic shoppers who keep coming back to explore, share, and celebrate new products together. UGCis marketing gold, providing social proof that influences more potential buyers.

These brand-led communities foster belonging, boost authenticity, and create a rich feedback loop that shapes future product lines and marketing campaigns.

Omnichannel Personalization

Gone are the days when a brand’s website, mobile app, social media channels, and physical stores functioned independently. Today’s shoppers seamlessly switch from browsing a brand’s Instagram feed to visiting its website before finally purchasing in-store. Omnichannel personalization ensures these interactions feel cohesive, personalized, and convenient at every touchpoint.

Imagine picking out a paint color on your phone’s AR app—seeing exactly how it would look on your living room walls—and then stepping into a store where an associate has your color swatch and a few complementing décor suggestions ready to go. This scenario encapsulates omnichannel personalization, where online, mobile, social, and in-store touchpoints blend seamlessly to create a unified experience.

For a home improvement retailer, that might mean localized AR measurements (switching between metric and imperial systems) or design choices that speak to regional architectural styles. A luxury fashion brand could follow up an in-store styling session with a customized online lookbook featuring accessories handpicked to complement the outfits you tried on.

According to Shopify, customers respond strongly to this degree of continuity, with a significant rise in repeat purchases and referrals. Achieving it requires integrated CRM systems, fluid data-sharing protocols, and, just as importantly, expert localization services to ensure each digital or in-person interaction remains culturally relevant—whether you’re marketing on Instagram in North America, WeChat in China, or WhatsApp in parts of Latin America.

Standing Out in 2025

Personalization has evolved into a must-have strategy that keeps consumers coming back for more. Brands willing to invest in language-centered localization, predictive analytics, community engagement, and omnichannel cohesion are poised to stand out. These strategies work best when they’re implemented with cultural sensitivity at every step—because personalization is as much about emotional resonance as it is about convenience.

For brands aiming to scale globally, partnering with experts like ��ɫ can make the journey smoother. Managing high-volume translations, ensuring cultural appropriateness, and orchestrating global marketing campaigns are complex tasks—ones that become easier with an experienced localization partner. In 2025, the most successful retailers won’t just sell products; they’ll deliver carefully crafted, culturally aligned experiences that keep shoppers feeling understood and valued, no matter where they call home.

If you’d like to learn more about how ��ɫ can help your brand succeed in 2025, reach out to our expert team today!

The ��ɫ Team

Retail & E‑Commerce

Retail & E-Commerce

What International Retailers Can Learn from Singles’ Day 2024

jpressman — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 15:35:59 +0000

What International Retailers Can Learn from Singles’ Day 2024 jpressman Thu, 11/14/2024 - 10:35

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In 1993, a group of Chinese students wanted to celebrate being single. What began as a one-day celebration on November 11 has grown into one of the world’s largest online shopping events – one that spans several weeks. Initiated by online retailer Alibaba in 2009, the event has become a showcase for digital innovation and marketing prowess, offering valuable lessons for international retailers aiming to elevate their own sales events.

This year Alibaba reported robust growth in sales as well as a record number of shoppers taking in part in the Single’s Day period. The second-largest e-commerce company in China reported a 20% year-over-year increase in shoppers during the event, and data provider Syntun estimated that sales rose 26.6% to 1.44 trillion yuan.

While some reports predicted less growth this year, Singles’ Day is still very much one of the biggest shopping events of the year, and something that retailers can learn from to inform their strategy in 2025 and beyond. Here are our top learnings and trends from this year’s Singles’ Day:

1. Leverage AI and Automation

The top three e-commerce giants in China utilise AI and automation in various ways. Alibaba has Quanzhantui, an AI tool that assists more than 250,000 merchants across 1.3 million products, helping to optimize sales strategies. This resulted in a 66% increase in GMV on the first day of the Singles’ Day period. JD.com leverages AI-driven chatbots to improve customer service, offering real-time support and tailored recommendations, and Pinduoduo applies AI to analyse market trends and customer preferences, enabling dynamic pricing and customized discounts.

2. Pricing and Customer Sentiment

Singles’ Day, like its Black Friday counterpart, used to be just one day with frenzied shoppers looking for any deal they could find. This year showed customer sentiment is changing, with people looking more for good deals on expensive products that they have carefully researched and really need/want. Now that shopping holidays are expanding their reach and not limited to just one day, customers have more time to think about their purchases.

3. Optimize Your Online Presence

Ensure your website is prepared to handle more traffic than usual. The entire online experience should be mobile compatible so customers don’t drop off if the checkout process is clunky. Another thing to consider is where your customers are coming from. While Singles’ Day originated in China, the event has spread globally and customers from all over the world will be looking to snag a deal. But with 65% of consumers preferring to consume content in their own language, having a localized digital experience will up your chances of selling to them.

4. Offer Layered Discounts and Early Access

Chinese platforms employ layered discounts and membership perks, encouraging consumers to engage early. In the 2024 lead-up, Alibaba recorded a significant increase in pre-orders, particularly from loyalty program members. By offering staggered discounts, exclusive memberships, and early access deals, retailers can build momentum before their sales events, leading to maximized engagement and sales.

If you’d like to develop your strategy in 2025 to attract more customers and grow your company’s footprint, get in touch to speak to our retail experts and kickstart your expansion journey.

By The ��ɫ Retail Team

Retail & E‑Commerce

Retail & E-Commerce

The Global Training Challenge in the Travel Industry: Digital Learning Development

shubham.laygude — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 12:35:46 +0000

The Global Training Challenge in the Travel Industry: Digital Learning Development shubham.laygude Mon, 08/05/2024 - 08:35

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Retail & E-Commerce

The New Era of Machine Translation for Retailers

muna.abdulkader — Thu, 16 May 2024 13:00:00 +0000

The New Era of Machine Translation for Retailers muna.abdulkader Thu, 05/16/2024 - 09:00

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As machine translation (MT) becomes more and more sophisticated, retailers are finding ways to reap the rewards in speed, accuracy, and cost savings. During a webinar, ��ɫ’s Laura Madden, Vice President of Retail ��ɫ, and Ty Trainer, Machine Translation Implementation Manager, talked about use cases, best practices, and what’s on the horizon for retailers leveraging MT.

MT for Creative Content: From “No Way” to “Start Today”

Retail clients often need translation for creative and customer-facing content. However, they don’t typically think of machine translation as a viable option.

The fact is MT has grown by leaps and bounds during the last 20 years. The prevailing model today, neutral machine translation (NMT), is based on deep learning. It’s more accurate, can be used for more languages, and often requires less human intervention.

Rather than debate whether you can use MT for creative content, it’s useful to ask:

How literal does the translation need to be?
How much will it diverge from what’s written in the source language?
How much will the messaging need to be adapted for the target audience?

For creative and other high-priority, public-facing content, MT with human post-editing is a great option that can make the process more efficient. We have clients who have successfully used us for creative content MT in 50+ languages!

Common MT Use Cases for Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)

Regional localization (e.g., American company launching in the UK): MT with human post-edit
Product descriptions: MT with human post-edit
Product/tech specs: MT with human post-edit
Care label content: MT with optional human post-edit
Survey and market research: MT with optional human post-edit
Internal emails: MT only
User-generated content (blogs, social feeds, comments, product reviews, articles): MT only

How to Know if MT Is Worth the Investment

Customers want to know how they can gauge the quality of their translations—and whether their investment in MT is paying off.

There is no universal answer to “What represents good quality?” for machine translation. It depends on the use case and language; some languages are more suitable for MT than others. For example, the translation quality of English to French may differ from English to Turkish.

That being said, post-edit distance (PED) gives an idea of how well MT is doing its job. PED measures the number of changes that need to be made to machine translation to get it to full human-level quality. The lower the percentage, the stronger the MT output.

For most languages, a PED in the range of 15–30% will bring some benefits in cost savings and turnaround time.

Five Takeaways for Retailers

Use caution with Google Translate: Think about risks before putting content into Google Translate and other publicly available providers. Look at their terms and conditions. With Google, any data you add becomes the IP of Google. This is not ideal for legal, HR, and other sensitive content.

Search ranking is not in jeopardy: Many believe that using MT for a customer-facing website will hurt their Google search ranking. There is the potential if you use raw MT. This is why we recommend some human post-editing for high-visibility content that may appear in search so that you are not penalized.

Get the gist: Use MT for “gisting” large files. This gives you a preliminary idea of what you are dealing with before you decide on next steps.

Take care of care labels: This is a great use case for apparel companies. Much of the content in our retail-specific engines at ��ɫ is care-label content.

Support your customers: Think chats and emails in other languages. MT plus an application programming interface (API) provides an instant gisting of what customers are asking.

What’s on the Horizon?

Retailers are beginning to use large language models (LLMs) to generate product descriptions. Instead of writing these manually or using a semi-automated tool, this is basically an MT engine that can create the descriptions.

Additionally, technology is allowing us to translate at the document level, whereas in the past, MT was always handled on the sentence or segment level. This takes the context of the translation into account more. We’re also looking at things like improved quality estimation for accurate scoring. This is a score provided by the MT engine that gives you an idea of how good the translation is going to be, helping you determine if it should go to a human for post-editing.

Finally, we’re finding ways where we can effectively customize our MT engines using less data. This is a win for efficiency.

The Benefits of a Tailored MT Solution

There are many players in the machine translation market, from major names to smaller, niche companies. You can opt for a plug-and-play solution or a more custom approach.

At ��ɫ, we take a consultative approach to machine translation, looking at the areas where it can add value for our clients. That’s different from buying an API license, plugging it in, throwing MT at it, and seeing if it sticks. That will work for some use cases, but we have more flexibility with our MT. We don’t automatically grab an MT engine off the shelf and use it—though we can do that, and we do it every day. But we test the quality of those engines against our own, and we select the best one for a particular use case.

We’ve created retail-specific engines for 10 languages, with more being added. For customers who want to customize their engine, we look at the business goals and what customization is going to achieve. Using any translation memory, glossaries, and dictionaries a client has, we can teach an engine so that it learns the voice and style of the brand and can draw from previous translations. This is where the magic happens when it comes to time and cost savings.

For additional insights, click to view the webinar.

��ɫ Team

Retail & E‑Commerce

Retail & E-Commerce

Conversations at the Crossroads: Navigating Retail and Travel Through the Lens of Journalism

muna.abdulkader — Wed, 15 May 2024 01:00:40 +0000

Conversations at the Crossroads: Navigating Retail and Travel Through the Lens of Journalism muna.abdulkader Tue, 05/14/2024 - 21:00

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Introducing an insightful interview with a seasoned journalist-turned-business leader, this blog delves into the multifaceted journey of transforming a passion for storytelling into a thriving career in the dynamic realms of retail and travel. Diving into the backstory, our guest reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped their trajectory, from humble beginnings in local journalism to embracing opportunities in the vibrant travel sector. With a keen eye for emerging trends and dedicated commitment to transparency, they offer invaluable insights into the art of storytelling in both journalism and business. Through candid reflections and illuminating anecdotes, readers are invited to explore how journalistic ethics and digital innovation intersect to drive success in today's ever-evolving landscape. Join us as we unravel the strategies, challenges, and triumphs that define this remarkable journey from newsroom to boardroom.

Let’s get started…

1. Background and Early Career:

Can you share a bit about your journey and how you got started? What inspired you to enter this particular industry, and how has your background influenced your approach?

I started in journalism in local newspapers as a reporter in what was then the conventional way – having gained a vocational NCTJ qualification after university. I was working for a local paper in London when I saw a job advert for a news desk role at Travel Weekly that really appealed to me. It wasn’t so much due to being in the travel sector – it was more about the prospect of becoming very much part of an industry that sounded fun, exciting and full of opportunities. I originally chose journalism because I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, and it felt like a career that would leave many doors open in terms of specialising. At the time I saw the advert, I was open to becoming more specialised and reporting on business or employers. This was because I had become acutely aware, at the local newspaper level at least, that this area was almost totally ignored and yet was probably more important to the readership’s daily lives and local economy than many of the public bodies and organisations that newspapers spent most of their time reporting on. I have always loved to travel, and the fact that this was in the travel industry was a bonus. I had previously worked for a dot-com digital start-up producing content about sports, which is another passion of mine, and that made me realise that it is possible to blur the line between your profession and a personal interest too much.

2. Pioneering Moments:

Can you highlight some key milestones or moments in your career that you consider pivotal to your success? What challenges did you face in the early stages, and how did you overcome them?

I’ve been lucky that pivotal moments have found me rather than being something I’ve had to go out and seek, particularly early on. Being approached to work for the rival publication of Travel Weekly after a couple of years was very important and a massive confidence boost because it was an unprompted acknowledgement that whatever I had been doing was noticed. Other pivotal moments are now only identifiable as such with the benefit of hindsight. So, the decision to take on the editorship of Travolution when I returned to Travel Weekly was not done with any great plan or vision for the long term, although it did reflect that the online and technology sector was an area I was interested in and believed to be vitally important. In terms of challenges, it’s always been about knowledge, or lack of it, because as a journalist, you really don’t know anything more than what the people you speak to tell you. I’ve never sold a holiday in my life or founded and run a company, but I have been expected to speak to people who have, on their level. Only taking a genuine interest in the subject matter, commitment and time can address this lack of knowledge and the terrible feeling of imposter syndrome that I assume all journalists must have.

3. Storytelling in Business:

In journalism, storytelling is crucial. How do you incorporate storytelling into your business strategies, especially in the context of retail and travel? Can you share an example of a situation where your storytelling skills played a key role in shaping a business narrative?

Storytelling is such a vital part of human culture, and journalism is just a reflection of that. The most important thing to remember is that the stories that most interest and inspire people are almost always about other people. That’s why stories about the ‘who’ will always be more popular than those about the ‘what’. Obviously in B2B journalism, there are plenty of stories about ‘what’, and it is our core duty to report these as a conduit of business-critical information between one side of the market to the other. However, I’ve always believed in the importance of bringing people into your reporting as much as possible. I think the best example of that has been the reporting I’ve done on start-ups because these are essentially stories about people, their backgrounds and their vision every bit as much as how they’ve turned thought into action. I really loved hearing these stories, and it was one of the key drivers for setting up the Travolution Start-Up Summit, which was a forum for more of these ambitious, smart and often incredibly young entrepreneurs to drive the narrative of the companies and organisations they’ve set up, because, as is often said, people buy people.

4. Navigating Public Perception:

Managing public perception is a common aspect of journalism. How does your experience in news editing contribute to your approach to handling the public image of your brand in the retail and travel sectors? Are there lessons from journalism that you've applied to crisis management or brand communication?

As a journalist, you will constantly come across some extremely poor examples of brands trying to manage their public perception, so you come to innately understand what ‘good’ looks like. At the same time, you tend to be extremely suspicious of blatant attempts to manipulate brand perception to the public that don’t bear any comparison to reality. Because of this, the brands I have worked for have tended to not prioritise managing their own public perception, probably assuming that takes care of itself if they’re doing a good job. Having said that, it’s clear that public perception, like storytelling, is inextricably linked to people, and increasingly, it is the journalists, reporters and writers whom you employ as a publisher that need to personify the brand and become its public face to the readership or audience. This makes your people more important than ever, particularly in a crisis when the public will be much less forgiving than if you had just portrayed an overly curated corporate image.

5. Information Adaptation for Business Strategies:

In news reporting, staying updated with information is crucial. How do you adapt your information-gathering skills to stay informed about market trends and consumer behaviour in retail and travel? Can you discuss a scenario where being well-informed influenced a strategic decision for your business?

It’s important to be open to as much information as possible, particularly from the original source. That’s where developing good contacts comes in because these are always going to be your best sources of information that no one else has – yet. That’s why it’s important to attend as many industry events as possible and use the conference sessions as not just an opportunity to create content but also to learn about the industry and the key trends that leading brands and decision-makers are thinking about. We’ve recently launched an initiative called ‘Best Places to Work in Aviation’, which will profile and celebrate companies named as great employers by their employees. Confirmation that we have identified a crucial issue has come from a number of different sources including reports and studies from key contacts and having attended important industry events where the challenge of people and skills has been a major talking point.

6. Sourcing and Verifying Data:

Journalists often verify information rigorously. How do you approach sourcing and verifying data in the business decisions you make in the retail and travel industries? Have there been instances where a meticulous approach to data verification led to a successful business outcome?

It can be challenging to verify data, and because news journalism moves so fast, by the time you have it, it will be out of date. So the key thing is to make sure that the data comes from a reputable source and that you put it in context. There are a number of public information sources, like Companies House and the Office for National Statistics, and many trade bodies and regulators in travel that can be relied on. But these should still always be cited as the source because, despite what some people seem to think, ‘shooting the messenger’ is still not a valid way to discredit a message. A common misconception is that news reporting is the last word on a particular issue. But usually, the topic is not a settled issue, so different views and perspectives only add to the debate. However, not all views are equal, and it’s the journalist’s job to assess whether to give the information they receive credence. Finding sources of verified industry data has resulted in a number of exclusive editorial reports being launched like the annual Travolution ‘Innovation Report’, which analyses data and uncovers key trends in technology investments by travel companies based in the UK.

7. Balancing Transparency and Business Interests:

Journalistic ethics often emphasise transparency. How do you balance the need for transparency with protecting the interests of your business in the retail and ecommerce sectors? Can you share an experience where transparency positively impacted your business?

There’s a lot of cynicism about transparency in the media. But in some ways, it is one of the more inherently transparent sectors because if anyone wants to know who our clients are, all they have to do is read the magazine or website – we all place our advertising in the public domain. All advertising or promotional content is clearly flagged as such so that it is immediately identifiable from editorial content. Journalists who are considered to act unethically will struggle to establish themselves in a specific industry or locality where trust is paramount, so they will guard their impartiality jealously because it’s in their interests to do so. Of course, publishers are still businesses with commercial interests, so important clients will be offered opportunities to contribute editorially or be invited to attend or speak at events ahead of rivals who do not advertise. No editorial relationship can come with a guarantee of favourable coverage, and I have had many a difficult conversation with good contacts. But, developing trust with key partners has resulted in innumerable exclusive stories that would not have been possible had there not been complete transparency about where the line between editorial and commercial activity lies.

8. Adapting to the Digital Age:

Journalism has undergone a significant shift in the digital age. How have you adapted to the digital transformation in the retail and ecommerce industry? Are there specific digital strategies that you've found particularly effective in these sectors?

Before I joined Travel Weekly in 2005, I was working in an office with just one computer console connected to the internet. Technology has transformed journalism over the last two decades and has given reporters an increasing number of sources of news and information as well as distribution channels. On the flip side, it has also enabled the rise of citizen journalism – effectively the disintermediation of established media brands – by, essentially, giving the traditional sources of news the ability to cut out journalists entirely and go directly to their audiences or communities. The digital age has also meant that journalists are expected to produce multimedia content – not something that many of those trained in traditional print media entered the profession to do. This digital transformation has served to make the personal brand or online profile of the individual journalist or editor more public and prominent and therefore important for the publishers that employ them. Different channels require different approaches, and it’s important to stay on top of emerging channels. I personally have found Twitter, now X, to be a great platform for finding and disseminating news quickly and building a brand presence, and LinkedIn for more considered content about business-critical issues. As a business, we’re currently experimenting with SMS and messenger apps, TikTok and Instagram because of their ability to build communities at scale, quickly. I spend a lot of time on TikTok but am more of a passive consumer of content than an active content producer. The big talk is now about AI, which I’ve no doubt will be producing more and more of the content we consume in the years to come. However, it will, I think, struggle to replicate the sort of journalism that generates engagement and content audiences want more of. Ultimately, journalists are looking for engagement with their content, and digital platforms give them the ability to track in real time whether that is happening. AI is likely to apply a colder, statistical approach and leave humans to be more creative.

9. Covering Industry Trends:

In journalism, covering industry trends is a common practice. How do you stay ahead of trends in the retail and travel industries, and how does this inform your business strategies? Can you share an example of a trend you identified early and successfully incorporated into your business model?

An emerging trend that was turbocharged during Covid was, obviously, working from home. This was interesting for travel, which already had a large and successful homeworking sector. So, we identified areas like remote-selling platforms, particularly those incorporating video calls, as potentially something whose day had come. For me today, it’s highly unusual that I do an interview over the phone rather than on a video conferencing app. This switch in formats has led to a proliferation of content outputs because you can record a video call to create a webcast and transcribe the conversation to create written content. You can also record just the audio to create a podcast, so one interview can generate multiple different forms of content for multiple channels.

10. Communicating Business Stories to the Public:

How do you approach communicating your company's story to the public and customers, and how does your journalism background shape this narrative? Are there specific storytelling techniques from journalism that you find effective in the business context?

This, again, comes down to how, as journalists, we have the greatest impact communicating what businesses stand for through their people and putting them front and centre. People buy people, and they, much more than a profit loss account or marketing strategy document, personify a company’s vision and values. As a business, we have decided to invest in people and in having the skills in our business deployed in the right places to maximise their impact. We’re a partnerships business, just like most of our clients, and we have evolved our marketing department into a customer success division that reports in a transparent, data-driven and collaborative way to the accounts it manages – in exactly the same way our editorial team does when handling stories and working with clients and contacts. We want to be doing more of this sort of communication in the future and look forward to celebrating our individual colleagues’ achievements and successes as well as those of our business as a whole.

Thanks for reading and joining our conversation. This interview not only illuminates the professional evolution of our guest but also underscores the enduring power of storytelling in shaping industries and fostering meaningful connections. From navigating challenges to embracing digital transformation, their journey serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of journalistic principles in the fast-paced worlds of retail and travel. As we look ahead to the future, armed with insights gleaned from experience and a commitment to transparency, their story inspires us to chart our own path with purpose and passion.

If you’d like to get in touch, give us a shout!

Lee Hayhurst

Editorial Director, Aviation Business News

Retail & E‑Commerce

Retail & E-Commerce

Retail Hive Pulse: Benchmarking Global eCommerce

jpressman — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Retail Hive Pulse: Benchmarking Global eCommerce jpressman Fri, 03/15/2024 - 00:00

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Retail & E‑Commerce

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Global Expansion for Retailers: The Cross-Border Benchmark Webinar

jpressman — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 18:24:54 +0000

Global Expansion for Retailers: The Cross-Border Benchmark Webinar jpressman Wed, 03/13/2024 - 14:24

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Check out our webinar with Aaron Campbell, Director of Retail at ��ɫ, and industry expert Samantha Davis at Thread Digital, as they discuss insights from the Hive Cross Border Benchmarking Report, empowering brands like yourself to assess performance against competitors and industry benchmarks.

Explore:

International expansion- Who's doing it right now?
Current and new target countries
Key challenges in this space
Preferred expansion strategies (D2C, Wholesale, Marketplaces)
Who takes responsibility for change within the organisation

Retail & E‑Commerce

Retail & E-Commerce

Top 5 Retail Trends for 2024

muna.abdulkader — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 15:28:17 +0000

Top 5 Retail Trends for 2024 muna.abdulkader Fri, 01/05/2024 - 10:28

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Catch a glimpse at the future of retail as we explore the trends set to shape the industry in 2024. From the integration of advanced technologies to evolving consumer behaviors, we’ve collated the top five trends that will redefine the retail landscape. Stay ahead of the curve by gaining insights into emerging strategies, innovative technologies, and consumer preferences that will drive success in the dynamic world of retail.

Re-commerce

In 2023, the re-commerce market in the US was worth more than $188 billion, with a forecast to get close to $276 billion by 2028. Retailers are capitalizing on this trend by implementing buy-back programs, encouraging product refurbishment, and creating marketplaces for secondhand items. This not only appeals to eco-conscious consumers but also extends the lifespan of products. The synergy between re-commerce and the circular economy is reshaping consumer behavior, fostering a more sustainable approach to consumption, and positioning retailers at the forefront of environmentally responsible practices.

Immersive Retail

Beyond just transactions, immersive retail experiences involve creating memorable, engaging moments for customers. Virtual and augmented reality are breaking down barriers, allowing shoppers to visualize products in real time. Interactive displays, personalized recommendations, and engaging store designs elevate the entire shopping journey. Retailers are embracing technology to blend the online and offline worlds seamlessly. With consumer attention becoming harder to grab in an ever-crowded market, retailers are having to work harder to captivate consumers. By providing unique experiences both physically and digitally, they will be able to foster brand loyalty—which is essential in this economy.

Data-driven Personalization

Data-driven personalization is steering the retail industry into a new era, especially in light of Google’s phasing out of third-party cookies. With the shift toward first- and second-party data collection, retailers are focusing on direct relationships with customers. By leveraging this information, brands can craft highly personalized shopping experiences, tailoring recommendations and content to individual preferences. Retailers need to invest in robust data strategies to gain insights, anticipate needs, enhance customer engagement, and build trust in an era where personalized, targeted interactions are paramount.

Enhanced Customer Experience

Beyond transactions, retailers are prioritizing seamless, personalized interactions. Leveraging advanced technologies, from AI to augmented reality, brands are tailoring services to individual preferences, streamlining the shopping journey. Omnichannel approaches ensure a cohesive experience across online and physical stores. Responsive customer support, efficient logistics, and innovative loyalty programs contribute to customer satisfaction. As competition intensifies, retailers recognize that a memorable and positive customer experience not only fosters loyalty but also serves as a powerful differentiator in the dynamic retail landscape, influencing purchasing decisions and long-term brand affinity.

Retail Media Networks

Retail Media Networks (RMNs) are platforms that enable retailers to sell ads to third-party brands on their digital properties, targeting consumers when they’re most engaged. Combined with AI-powered tools, retailers can boost the outcomes of their media campaigns by accelerating time-to-market, streamlining operations, and enhancing workflows. RMNs already account for 10% of ad spend in the US, and we’re predicting that RMNs will continue to grow in 2024 and cross over into brick and mortar with digital signage.

The future of retail is marked by dynamic shifts and innovative trends. As technology, sustainability, and consumer preferences continue to evolve, retailers embracing these trends are poised for success, fostering loyalty, and standing out in a competitive market. If you’d like to learn more about how ��ɫ can help your brand succeed in 2024, reach out to our expert team today!

��ɫ Retail Team

Retail & E‑Commerce

Retail & E-Commerce

Black Friday 2023 Predictions and Tips for Retailers: Adapting to the Digital Age

muna.abdulkader — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 14:00:45 +0000

Black Friday 2023 Predictions and Tips for Retailers: Adapting to the Digital Age muna.abdulkader Thu, 11/09/2023 - 09:00

Blog

Black Friday marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season, featuring exclusive post-Thanksgiving deals and discounts across businesses. In the past, people woke up before dawn the Friday after Thanksgiving and lined up outside stores to snag the best deals. However, the digital age and lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have forever transformed this retail holiday, extending the shopping window both in-store and online throughout the entire Thanksgiving week. But have you ever wondered how Black Friday came to be?

During the mid-20th century, the city of Philadelphia witnessed an influx of tourists and suburban shoppers who would come to the city the Friday following Thanksgiving in anticipation of the annual Army-Navy football game held that Saturday. It was during this time that retailers noticed a surge in holiday shopping, driven by discounted merchandise, that turned their financial accounts from “red” to “black.” Consequently, after a couple of years, the name “Black Friday” was coined, earning its place in retail history.

With each passing year, Black Friday takes on a new face, reflecting evolving trends and demands. As we look ahead to Black Friday 2023, retailers and businesses need to be well-prepared for the changing consumer preferences and retail environment. Here are our key predictions and some valuable tips to help retailers successfully navigate the Black Friday frenzy.

1. Prepare to Meet Increased Demand

Retailers can expect to see eager consumers stalking the best deals, but because preferences have shifted to online shopping, much of the rush will be at their virtual doorsteps. The National Retail Federation’s poll from last year suggested a record of 196.7 million people shopped during Thanksgiving weekend, with roughly 87.2 million consumers shopping online. To meet this heightened demand, stock up on popular items and optimize your website for the expected surge in traffic. Efficient inventory management is vital to prevent stockouts. And don't underestimate the power of responsive customer service for handling inquiries and potential issues.

2. Enhance Your Eco-Friendliness

The growing wave of eco-conscious consumers will be on the lookout for retailers who promote sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint. Forrester reports 34% of US online adults are strongly influenced by companies’ commitment to be environmentally responsible. To cater to eco-conscious shoppers, consider offering eco-friendly packaging and sustainable delivery options. Make your commitment to environmentally responsible practices a highlight of your Black Friday offerings.

3. Reduce Online Return Issues

According to Salesforce, 13% of holiday orders were returned last year. With the increased shift to online shopping, the rate of returns is expected to remain high. Understanding the reasons for these returns is critical for a successful Black Friday. Analyze the reasons behind customer returns and proactively address common issues. Today, more than 60% of customers expect companies to meet all their needs. Offering a seamless and user-friendly return process can significantly reduce the impact of returns. Clearly defined return policies and excellent customer support are essential components of reducing the return rate.

4. Social Media Promotion Is Key

In the digital age, social media continues to be a powerhouse for marketing and promotion, and Black Friday is no exception. Not only do 43% of social media users identify as ”social media shoppers,” but 71% of users are more likely to purchase products based on social media referrals, so a strong social media presence is essential. Establish a compelling and active presence on popular platforms, create engaging content that resonates with your audience, and use targeted advertising to increase visibility.

5. Prepare for Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday, following Black Friday, remains a significant shopping day with its own separate demands. Last year, Cyber Monday sales were higher than any other day during the holiday shopping season. Capital One projects sales revenue will reach a total of $13.7 billion on Cyber Monday this year compared to $11.3 billion in 2022. To keep up with demand, make sure you have enticing discounts, maintain well-stocked inventory, and provide a seamless online shopping experience. Cyber Monday shopping makes up 5.34% of all holiday shopping revenue, so make the most of this opportunity by being well-prepared and delivering on expectations.

Black Friday 2023 promises to be another whirlwind of sales and consumer activity, driven by evolving trends and changing preferences. Retailers need to adapt to these shifts in the digital age to stay competitive and meet customer expectations.

If you’re looking for assistance with your digital strategy for Black Friday and beyond, we're here to help. For expert guidance on how to make the most of this critical shopping season, contact us here.

Clementina Perez Riveros

Marketing Team

Retail & E‑Commerce

Retail & E-Commerce

Celebrating Singles Day: The Retail Industry's Hidden Gem

muna.abdulkader — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 18:21:16 +0000

Celebrating Singles Day: The Retail Industry's Hidden Gem muna.abdulkader Thu, 10/26/2023 - 14:21

Blog

Singles Day, an occasion that celebrates independence and self-love, is gaining recognition in the retail industry, and it’s not limited to any specific country. Born in China, this phenomenon is making waves around the world. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of Singles Day in the retail industry and how businesses are capitalizing on this growing trend.

The Origins of Singles Day

Singles Day, celebrated on November 11 (11/11), was conceived in China as an antithesis to Valentine’s Day. The date was chosen because the number "1" symbolizes singleness. Over the years, it has evolved into a day where single people celebrate their independence and pamper themselves with treats and gifts.

The Retail Impact of Singles Day

With more people choosing to stay single or delaying marriage, the single population is growing—so much so that the number of unmarried Americans has tripled in the past half-century. Retailers have recognized this demographic’s increasing purchasing power, and Singles Day has become an opportunity to cater to their specific needs and desires.

Retail Sales and Promotions: Just like Black Friday or Cyber Monday, Singles Day has become a retail extravaganza. It was originally created as a celebration for single people to get together and celebrate their independence. But over the years it has evolved into an online retail phenomenon with ecommerce stores offering discounts and promotions to lure shoppers. Retailers offer special discounts, promotions, and exclusive deals, attracting both singles and couples looking for unique gifts.
Self-Love and Self-Care: Singles Day encourages people to treat themselves, promoting the idea of self-love and self-care. Beauty and wellness brands often capitalize on this by promoting products and services that help individuals feel good about themselves. Between 2019 and 2020, Google Search Trends shows a 250% increase in self-care-related searches. Men and women of all age ranges believe that self-care is an important part of making healthier lifestyle choices, and many believe that self-care practices have an impact on their overall well-being.
Gifting Culture: While it’s a day for self-care, many people also use Singles Day as an opportunity to celebrate their single friends. Gifting has become a significant part of this holiday, leading to a surge in sales for gift shops and online retailers. A study showed that the majority of the respondents (68%) said giving is one of their love languages.

Examples of Global Promotion

Alibaba’s Global Outreach: Alibaba’s ”Double 11” shopping festival is not confined to China; it has expanded to reach international audiences. It’s become the largest online shopping day in the world, with incredible sales and deals on everything from electronics to fashion.
Social Media Engagement: Social media platforms are a global stage for promoting Singles Day. Especially when taken global, businesses can create content in different languages and engage with an international audience effectively. Singles are the most connected users to the mobile in Europe, and almost 60% take any opportunity to meet people through their device.
Collaborative Efforts: Brands and retailers can collaborate across borders, creating products or services that cater specifically to the preferences of consumers in various countries. This gives shoppers a more joyful, personalized experience.

Reach Everyone

Breaking Language Barriers: One of the key challenges in taking Singles Day worldwide is language. Different countries have different languages and dialects. To ensure that everyone can participate and understand the message, retailers need to translate their marketing materials, websites, and promotional content into multiple languages. Professional translation services can make this a seamless process, breaking down language barriers and creating an inclusive experience.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding the cultural nuances and sensitivities of different regions is crucial for a successful global campaign. Translation services with expertise in localization can help businesses adapt their messaging to respect cultural norms, ensuring that the celebration is well-received in diverse regions.
E-commerce Expansion: With the rise of e-commerce, retailers can now easily sell products to customers all over the world. By doing this, businesses can provide information, descriptions, and customer support in multiple languages, making it easier for international customers to shop and celebrate Singles Day.

Singles Day is more than just a celebration of singleness; it’s an emerging force in the retail industry. As more people embrace the idea of self-love and self-gifting, this holiday presents a golden opportunity for retailers to tap into a growing market. With exciting sales, promotions, and campaigns, businesses can make Singles Day a memorable and enjoyable experience for singles and non-singles alike. So, whether you’re celebrating your single status or shopping for a friend, mark your calendar for November 11 and join the retail industry in celebrating this unique and exciting holiday.

To learn more and get in touch with our experts in the industry, reach out to us here!

��ɫ’s Retail Team

Retail & E‑Commerce

Retail & E-Commerce