Future of omni-channels

We have shown you how omni-channel retailing and consumer purchasing evolved based on visible trends in technological developments. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Technologies are advancing at breakneck pace on many fronts (some of which we’ve already discussed). Driverless trucks and drones, for example, will have direct implications on supply chain operations and logistical processes, while others may only have an indirect effect.

What is more significant, perhaps, than the effects of technologies is the way technologies are being leveraged in purchasing. For example, Amazon recently introduced Dash buttons to log in shoppers with a one-step “push-button to delivery” hassle-free experience. This e-commerce company is also partnering smart device manufacturers, such as General Electric, to include its Dash technology in items like washing machines and printers through its Dash Replenishment service. The range of possibilities is limited only by human imagination.

DHL, a global logistics service provider, offers four future scenarios on e-tailing in “Global E-Tailing 2025” study. With the aim of starting “a dialog about the future of electronic retailing and the implications for the logistics industry, “Global E-Tailing 2025” examines the role electronic retailing will play in people’s lives in the years ahead. It speculates how international online retailing would change consumer behavior and the world of retailing as a whole, and outlines the challenges the logistics industry will face. We have included the DHL site where the above scenario is discussed at further length in the interesting links below. We encourage you to visit the site, which also contains a video of DHL’s vision.

In fact, there is so much to grasp when discussing the future of omni-channels. It would be difficult to adequately address all aspects. However, just to give you a couple of examples, the articles and the videos suggested in the interesting links indicate some key developments.

Activity

Read the news article “Amazon to open small stores, online supermarket in Australia, Sydney Morning Herald, 2016).

The online e-commerce giant, Amazon is set to enter many overseas markets next year including Australia. How would you envisage the future of e-commerce and omni-channel retailing?

Post your thoughts in the Comments area below.