Market Trends: eCommerce Slow Start to the Year and the Shift to Experiential Spending

eCommerce Slow Start to the Year

Despite the usual post-holiday rebound, the eCommerce sector has yet to see a significant uptick in sales. Typically, February marks a period of renewed growth, but sales have remained stagnant since January. Several factors may be contributing to this trend, including:

• Shifts in consumer spending behaviour
• Budgeting for upcoming seasonal expenses
• Delayed purchases in anticipation of sales events

"Treat Yourself" Trend Fuels Consumer Spending

On the other hand, within social media the "treat yourself" movement continues to gain momentum, driving sales in key categories such as:

• Self-care and wellness products
• Essential everyday items
• Services that promote relaxation and indulgence

Experiential Spending on the Rise

Consumers are increasingly prioritising experiences over physical goods, opting for travel, dining, and other experiential purchases rather than material possessions.

Shifting Industry Trends

1. Health & Wellness – The industry is poised for growth, particularly in areas like gym memberships and fitness programs.
2. Food & Beverage – Plant-based diets are re-surging, with 30% of Australians identifying as flexitarian or vegan.
3. Home & Garden – With remote work on the rise, demand for home office furniture and decor continues to grow.
4. Travel – Australians are seeking immersive, adventure-driven travel experiences that emphasise cultural exploration.

What This Means for the Future of Online Trends

1. Personalisation and Retention Strategies – With consumer spending slowing, eCommerce brands need to shift strategies. Personalisation, targeted promotions, and loyalty incentives will be key to retaining customers.
2. Experiential Marketing Will Thrive – People are prioritising experiences over material goods. Brands that integrate immersive online experiences, virtual try-ons, and interactive content will stay ahead.
3. Paid Media Engagement – Platforms like Facebook and Instagram will likely see a rise in social commerce. Shoppers trust recommendations from influencers, creators, and online communities. Brands partnering with influencers or leveraging user-generated content see higher engagement and conversion rates.
4. The Rise of AI-Powered Personalisation – As consumers become more selective, AI-driven recommendations and hyper-personalised content will be crucial for engagement and conversion. (LINK TO AI ARTICLE)
5. Community-Driven Commerce – Shoppers are relying more on peer reviews, influencer endorsements, and online communities to make purchasing decisions. Meta will likely continue investing in features that drive engagement through user-generated content.
6. Sustainability & Ethical Consumerism – With plant-based diets and wellness trends growing, businesses focusing on sustainability, ethical sourcing, and transparency will appeal to the modern conscious consumer.

In short, brands leveraging Meta’s platforms for interactive, experience-driven, and personalised shopping journeys will be best positioned to thrive. 

At 30Acres, we help businesses adapt, innovate, and turn these trends into opportunities. Let’s future-proof your eCommerce strategy—get in touch today.