7 eCommerce trends to try in 2025

Online shopping is changing fast, and eCommerce is set to get even bigger this year. Customers are getting smarter about online shopping, so businesses need to keep up.

This article will explain the most important trends shaping online stores' future. We'll talk about how things like AI, AR, and eco-friendly practices are changing how people shop and what you can do to make your business successful.

We'll cover seven eCommerce trends for 2025: AI, AR, sustainability, mobile shopping, social media shopping, flexible payments, and better customer experiences through technology.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and personalization

Be honest: scrolling through many products online can feel like searching for a sock in a messy drawer. That’s where AI, your shopping assistant, comes in.

Imagine this: you visit a website, and you see the products you want. That’s AI working behind the scenes, learning your preferences, and showing you the best options. It saves you time and helps you skip the endless scrolling.

For quick question? AI chatbots can cover this for you. The same way AI can help with product or service searching, where AI makes it simple. Instead of typing in random keywords, ask ‘Where can I find a cozy blue sweater?’, AI will find it for you.

AI makes shopping feel personal. It helps businesses connect with customers, which leads to more sales and loyal shoppers. For online stores, using AI is a smart way to stay ahead.

Augmented Reality (AR) integration

You know how sometimes you see something online, and you're like, 'I wish I could just see what that would look like in my house?' Or if those sunglasses would fit your face? That's where Augmented Reality (AR) comes in. It's basically like digitally bringing the store to your living room.

Think about it: you're shopping for glasses online, and instead of just looking at pictures, you can use your phone's camera. You see how those frames look on your face, like a virtual mirror.

Or, say you're buying makeup. You can use an app to "try on" different lipstick colors without opening a tube. It shows you how it looks on your skin. That's AR in action.

And it's not just for clothes and makeup. Furniture stores are getting in on it, too. You can place a virtual furniture in your living room to see if it fits and matches your vibe. Paint companies? They let you know what different colors look like on your walls before you even buy the paint. It's pretty cool.

Why's this so great? It takes away that 'what if' feeling when shopping online. You can see how stuff looks in your space, so you're more confident about what you're buying. It makes shopping more fun, too, like you're playing a game. And when you're sure about something, you're way more likely to click 'buy,' right? AR is making online shopping more accurate, and that's an objective view of how things are changing.

Sustainability and eco-friendly practices

Nowadays, people care more about the planet than ever before, and this concern is shaping how we shop. 'Eco-friendly' isn't just a trend—it's a must.

When you shop, would you buy a shirt made from recycled materials and wrapped in paper or plastic from a polluting factory? Most of us choose the first option.

And it's not just about the product. Consumers want transparency: where do the materials come from? Is the packaging recyclable? What's the company doing to reduce its carbon footprint?

Customers want to know that brands care about the planet, and businesses are catching on. Going green is good for the Earth and business. Shopping with a conscience is here to stay.

Mobile Commerce (M-Commerce) expansion

Let's be honest—when did you last go anywhere without your phone? Exactly. We're glued to them, and that includes shopping. Enter mobile commerce, which is growing fast.

It's simple: shopping on your phone or tablet. Since everyone has a phone, more people are using them to shop.

Think about it:

• Shopping on the go. Whether on the bus or relaxing, you can buy whatever you need anytime.
• Easy payments. With Apple Pay and Google Pay, buying is as simple as a tap.
• Mobile-friendly stores. Websites and apps are designed to be easy to use on phones, making shopping a breeze.

It's all about convenience. People want to shop quickly, and phones make it happen. If your store isn't mobile-friendly, you're missing out.

If your online store isn't mobile-optimized, it's like selling ice cream in winter—it's just not going to work.

Social commerce growth

How much time do we all spend on social media? 143 minutes per day. Now, you can shop there too. That’s social commerce—your favorite platforms turning into shopping malls.

Instead of just scrolling through posts, you can buy stuff directly. Here’s how:

• Shoppable posts. See something you like on Instagram? Click and buy without leaving the app.
• Live shopping. Watch a live video showcasing products and buy them on the spot.
• In-app shops. Platforms like TikTok and Facebook now let you browse and buy without leaving the app.

Why is it so popular? It’s super convenient. You’re already on social media, so why not shop too? Plus, it’s a great way to discover new products and brands.

It’s like hanging out online with friends and finding something you love, all in one place. Social shopping is made simple.

Flexible payment options

Everyone has their payment preferences. Some like using credit cards, others prefer digital wallets, and some choose Buy Now, Pay Later. That's why offering flexible payment options is key for online stores.

It's all about giving customers choices:

• Digital wallets. PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay let you pay with a tap—quick and easy.
• Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL). Services like Klarna and Afterpay break big purchases into smaller payments.
• Cryptocurrency. Some stores now accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
• Credit and Debit cards. It's always a reliable option.

Why does this matter? If customers can't find a payment method they like, they might leave. Offering options makes it more likely they'll complete a purchase.

It's all about giving people the freedom to pay how they want—a flexible approach to business.

Enhanced customer experience through technology

All the cool tech we mentioned can be made even better by making customers happy. Enhancing the customer experience with these technologies is all about that.

It's about using tech to make shopping easier and more enjoyable:

• Chatbots. Need a question answered? Chat with a bot that responds instantly—like having a helpful assistant on your screen.
• Personalized recommendations. AI knows what you like and shows you products you'll want—no more scrolling through irrelevant stuff.
• Seamless checkout. Tech makes checkout simple with one-click payments and easy instructions.
• AR (Augmented Reality). See how products look before buying—helping customers visualize their purchase.
• Faster Loading Times. No one likes waiting. Faster websites keep impatient customers happy.

Why does it matter? Happy customers are loyal customers. An excellent shopping experience keeps them returning—and they'll tell their friends.

It's about using tech to make every customer feel like a VIP. It's a win for everyone!

Embrace a future that empowers your eCommerce growth

AI, AR, and sustainability are transforming eCommerce. Staying ahead is key to succeeding in 2025. Customers now expect personalized, mobile-friendly, and eco-conscious shopping experiences.

Network Solutions provides tailored products and services to help you harness these trends and stay competitive.