As marketers, staying ahead of consumer trends is what we do. It’s critical to delivering value and driving growth for the brands we work with. Just in time for the New Year, our partner, HubSpot, rolled out their 2024 Consumer Trends Report, offering guidance and insights into shifting consumer behaviors and preferences. The report contains findings that businesses might want to consider when understanding how shopping habits have changed. Here’s a rundown on how to adapt and continue driving growth in 2025.
All jokes aside, let’s get into it.
4 Consumer Behaviors Shaping Online Shopping Habits
1. Consumers Are Researching Purchases More Than Ever
Shoppers are dedicating more time to research before making a purchase, extending beyond the mindless scroll. Consumers are actively comparing products, reading reviews, and seeking out more detailed information before buying. Tools like AI are playing a growing role in helping consumers make informed decisions, providing recommendations and answers during their search.
2. Mobile App vs. Browser Purchases
The preference for shopping through a brand’s mobile app is growing, with many favoring the convenience and features apps provide compared to browser windows. Apps add a personalized experience to integrated payment systems and create a smoother purchasing process. This shift is pushing businesses to create mobile apps or enhance their current mobile app offerings to meet customer expectations.
3. Social Media Search as a Shopping Channel
Social media platforms are gaining influence in online shopping. Influencers drive trends and purchasing decisions across apps like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Nearly half of online shoppers feel comfortable buying directly through these platforms. Features like direct messaging are doubling as customer service tools, while chatbots handle queries and provide real-time assistance.
4. Consumers Are “Careful Spending”
Consumers are being more thoughtful with their spending habits, focusing on saving money and finding added value in their purchases. Many are scrutinizing the brands they support, with over half tightening their budgets and emphasizing transparency in building long-term customer relationships.
Symboliq is Your Strategic Brand Growth Partner
At Symboliq Media, we help businesses translate these consumer shopping trends into actionable strategies. Whether it’s optimizing your digital presence or launching impactful campaigns, let’s connect and shape your strategic plan for 2025: https://symboliqmedia.com/contact/
