There is little doubt that the rise of online shopping has changed the retail industry. In order to stay competitive within the constantly evolving marketplace that is modern-day retail, high street stores are almost having to reinvent themselves in many ways. New merchandising solutions are being brought in on a constant basis to keep the high street fresh, alive and competitive.

We have explored three merchandising and store trends that are set to become a more popular as the UK retail sector embraces how effective digital integration can benefit their retail estate.

Customer-Centric Marketing

The websites of most major online retailers will remember exactly what customers have either purchased from them or simply browsed for on previous visits. The high street is adapting similar technology, with interactive displays and smart devices changing the way store merchandising is looked at. Simple solutions such as customer stock check interfaces and click and collect technology are becoming more ubiquitous with in-store experiences, as retailers look to integrate digital to enhance their service.

Mobile transactional payments are becoming more of a common practice amongst UK retailers, as stores realise the growth of customers using their handsets to purchase goods online.  

Interactive store technology gives high street retailers a valuable insight into the shopping habits of consumers, allowing for the personalised, customer-centric experience.

Augmented Reality

Although it may take some time for augmented reality to really take off in the UK, 2015 should still see some progress in this area. Some larger retailers have already experimented with the likes of interactive window displays and virtual fitting rooms in their flagship stores. Cosmetics counters are benefiting from the use of such technology, as augmented reality make up mirrors become a more common stable of the beauty department rather than just a sales gimmick.

Expect experiments with differing forms of augmented reality to continue during the year, as retailers compete for customer attention in the busy sector.

Destination Stores

With online retail offering fast, efficient and 24- hour shopping experiences, the high street arena needs to offer something extra to entice people away from the internet. Turning a shopping trip into a shopping experience is one way of doing this. A growing number of retailers are beginning to enrich the in-store experience through the services they offer to their customers. From greater integration of technology, such as free Wi-Fi, to offering ‘comfort zones’ as retailers realise that the sales floor is no longer about just selling product but selling the brand image.

Shopping centres across the UK are beginning to offer airport-style lounges, for customers to pick up their shopping, book restaurants and other facilities as customer’s wellbeing becomes a central focus in 2015.