As the retail sector makes its last big sales push this year, Katie Smith (Retail Analysis & Insights Director at EDITED) believes that the following trends will prevail in 2018.

These trends are based on an analysis of over 660 million online products using EDITED’s AI/analytics platform and insights from retailers globally.

1. Retail will provide greater pricing transparency

While some discounting is healthy and necessary, retailers have found that a long-term dependence on markdowns dilutes a brand’s value and erodes confidence. In 2018, brands will experiment with ways to use prices to attract customers. This includes giving customers a discount if they remove the “free returns” option or buy multiple items, or are transparent about supply chain costs, like Everlane, to align with consumer values.

2. The AI avalanche will continue for retailer survival

The continued expansion of Amazon into groceries, apparel and other consumer goods mean AI will be essential for retailers’ survival. In 2018, new AI applications – including more chatbots, voice-activated devices, real-time analytics and systems to detect payment fraud will flood the industry. Savvy retailers will recognize which apps to use for greater personalization, customer service and inventory management.

AI will be essential for retailers’ survival.

3. Experience-driven retail will prevail

In a year punctuated by record-breaking number of bankruptcies and store closures, selling products is no longer “good enough.” In 2018, the onus on retailers is to educate shoppers on the value they deliver beyond their wares, helping to build an emotional connection and sense of community. From Story’s thematic retail concept store to Snowe’s magazine, by understanding the brand’s backstory, there’s a greater opportunity to spark conversations, and affiliate shoppers to the retailer.

In 2018, the onus on retailers is to educate shoppers on the value they deliver beyond their wares, helping to build an emotional connection and sense of community

4. Luxury retail will continue to gain ground

From the growing middle class in China to Millennials spending their disposable income on experiences, the average cost of luxury items is up 15.4% compared to three years ago, according to EDITED – and this growth rate will continue in 2018. And with Gen Z having a broader number of diverse backgrounds and preferences than any other generation, the luxury retail market continues to grow more than any other category.

5. Store shutdowns shift to delivery & distribution

As demand dwindles for in-store retail staff, the demand is shifting from the shop floor to delivery. Consumers will expect quicker (even same day) delivery, the convenience of scheduling a time, and easy return policies, which retailers will need to support without sacrificing margins.

Demand is shifting from the shop floor to delivery.

• EDITED is a retail analytics and technology company.