Thanks For Shopping

Not only is Black Friday the kickoff of the holiday shopping season, but as new initiatives, extended store hours, and promotions galore try to draw consumers into shops, the largest non-religious holiday here in the U.S. is continually threatened by retailers alike. What it comes down to is, we just don't shop like we used to. With the onset of new technology, irregular weather patterns and an even more unpredictable economy, retailers are changing how they approach their customers in everyway possible this upcoming holiday season.

From Loewe’s customizing it’s floors with iphones to track stock to Footlocker’s changing taglines to Old Navy increasing the number of greeters on site as well as keeping trendy impulse items by checkouts, it’s really a game of trial and error to figure out what works best. However, what may work one day just may not the next. 

photo via latimes

One of the hottest trends this season to come, introducing new ipad apps designed to make shopping easier and more entertaining by incorporating interactive media that enhances the overall shopping experience. It seems everyone from Anthropologie to Saks, J.Crew, and even Walmart is creating these digital multi-media catalogs. While research shows only a mere 8% of online shoppers own ipads, those that do, prefer shopping on their tablet versus using a computer or smartphone. The digital arena is growing and digital catalogs are sure to be the next approach sought after by retailers worldwide.

photo via youtube.com

Another way retailers are adding some fun and freebies into the mix is with the free app shopkick. By simply "checking in" to a store customers have the opportunity to win giftcards, promotions, and special discounts. It's a simple, inexpensive way to get consumers involved and enthusiastic about their shopping experiences.

photo via wwd.com

What if you could get deals from what you already own? Well, now with RNKD.com, you can. Created by Zappos founder, Nick Swinmurn, the site and mobile app allows consumers to get VIP discounts for things already sitting right in their closets! The more photos you upload, friends you refer, and "liking" you do, the more points you earn. It's also a great resource to get inspired and browse others' closets to explore different brands and labels.

photo via fashionunited,co

Bodymetrics is a full 3D body scanner that allows consumers to save all their body information digitally online. The difference between this and previous renditions? Well not only is this body scanner less costly, but it can be installed in a mere couple of hours. It's expected to really revolutionize the online shopping experience so we'll keep an eye out for it to pop up in shops across the globe.

photo via Chicago Tribune

So what we are really here to ask is are these new strategies challenging our traditional holiday? More and more retailers like Target, Macy's, Best Buy, and Kohl's plan to open their stores at midnight on the dot. Meanwhile, Walmart plans to open at 10pm on Thanksgiving! As these retailers push to open earlier and earlier what about the employees who have to give up their holiday to deal with the madness of Black Friday? Both J.C. Penney and Sears aren't giving in to all this anti-holiday spirit as they keep their doors closed until the usual 4am early bird special. Maybe one day when technology gets even more advanced, we will be able to entirely shop from home while simultaneously giving thanks. Until then, we think it’s safe to say we still much prefer an old fashioned holiday.

From all of us here at MBF Trend Consulting, Happy Thanksgiving and safe shopping!