With 2022 nearing its end, it’s time for a look back on an eventful 12 months. Oh, and a round-up of our most popular content from the Ryder E-commerce by Whiplash blog!
From defining the elusive metaverse to exploring TikTok and best practices for abandoned cart recovery – we’ve got you covered. Take a trip down memory lane with us today!
In 2022, everybody is talking about the metaverse. But, what is it exactly? There isn’t quite a set definition. Why? Because the ‘metaverse’ is many things working together, all at once. What we do know is that the metaverse brings consumers together and creates some hyper-personalized experiences.
For brands, stepping into the metaverse can mean utilizing AR for virtual try-on, developing a virtual shopping space with avatar store associates, or bringing their brand into an online gaming environment.
No matter which route retailers take when it comes to the metaverse, it’s clear that this evolving digital environment can pave the path for more seamless, engaging, and personalized shopping experiences.
Read Welcome to the metaverse of now
More valuable inventory without any big changes?
Often overlooked in e-commerce, kitting is a simple yet effective way to add value to product offerings without muddling inventory. Similar to how changing the layout of a room presents an entirely new feel, changing how products can be bought will create a completely different (and more exciting) experience.
Not only that; product kitting has the potential to boost sales, cut shipping costs, and help brands avoid excess inventory. Sounds great! But what does it take to create successful kitting? For e-commerce brands, they’ll need a well-planned marketing and operational strategy – along with the technology to support custom packing rules for every kit. Let’s dive in!
Read more about product kitting in e-commerce fulfillment
What defines the perfect order in e-commerce? While there isn’t a ‘golden’ answer, most merchants agree that the delivery experience itself is more than half the battle. Customers want their orders delivered on time (ideally, even faster).
The question is, how can e-commerce brands meet their customers’ expectations for flawless deliveries in a cost-effective way? For fast-growing apparel brand Mugsy, finding a tech-focused 3PL partner who could deliver value without any guardrails was the key to seamless logistics, fulfillment cost-reduction, and happier customers.
Learn about how Ryder E-commerce by Whiplash transformed Mugsy’s fulfillment experience, reached their target SLAs within the first week, and ensured their customers’ needs were being met – every time.
Read more about Mugsy and defining the perfect order
Did you know that cart abandonment results in e-commerce brands losing $18 billion every year? That’s a hefty amount of potential revenue missed. This brings forth a larger question: why do customers jump ship at checkout?
There are plenty of reasons that could be the culprit of abandoned cart behavior… but most of them have to do with shipping. Think: unexpected costs or limited options. The good news? There are actionable ways to recover abandoned carts and better understand customer behavior.
Read 7 Abandoned cart recovery strategies
In 2022, one thing has been certain: consumer expectations are always changing. From social commerce to immersive experiences, customers constantly on the lookout for unique, personalized, and seamless buying journeys.
What can brands do to make sure they’re not only meeting expectations, but going above and beyond for their customers? We took a look at the top 4 trends consumers want in 2022. The common denominator? Flexibility. Read on for more expectations and tips to stay ahead of the game.
Read more about meeting e-commerce customer expectations
Nowadays, we can’t go more than a few days without hearing about TikTok. Whether it’s a friend who wants you to watch a hilarious cat video, a new dance trend, or an up-and-coming singer who went completely viral – TikTok has become a household name.
In fact, in 2022, the video-streaming platform had over 1 billion (yes, billion) users. For e-commerce brands with a target audience of Gen Zers and Millennials, TikTok could be the key to ultimate brand awareness, community, and the chance to reach potential customers across the globe.
Plus, it has a handful of neat advertising and shopping features for a seamless purchasing experience that boosts sales.
Read the Brand’s guide to TikTok for e-commerce
Free shipping. Every consumer wants it, and some have even come to expect it. But, no brand wants to front shipping costs for every single order. Is there truly a way to provide free shipping without all of financial stress?
We’ve got good news – there is: setting a free shipping threshold.
Implementing a free shipping threshold is a sustainable strategy that not only protects profit margins but also boosts both AOV and customer satisfaction. Customers are encouraged to spend more money on products to meet a certain number so won’t need to pick up as much of the costs out of their own pocket.
The results? A win/win for companies and consumers alike.
Read more about how to set your free shipping threshold.
After prices spiked higher than they’ve been in the past 40 years, consumers began taking a cautious approach in their buying behavior. They’re buying less – and when they are buying products, they’re choosing wisely.
For brands to successfully navigate this tricky time, they’ll need to shift their efforts to accommodate more selective consumers. Whether it’s revamping their loyalty program or including free shipping to offset higher prices, brands will need to ensure their customers that they’re watching out for them.
Plus, a brand that puts the customer first during difficult times will only foster a stronger community of current customers and entice prospective customers as well.
Read 5 Ways to boost sales during inflation
“Alexa, how many consumers are using voice commerce?”
“Last year, over 45 million consumers in the US alone used voice technology for their shopping needs.”
Voice commerce is changing the way we think about the buying journey. In lieu of a scroll, click, or stroll, this new method of purchasing is hands-free. With the power of voice recognition technology, customers can ask their smartphones / speakers questions, deliver commands, and more.
It’s clear that e-commerce customers may already be researching and purchasing products with just the sound of their voices. But, how difficult is it for brands to implement a successful voice commerce strategy? And, why should they? Speed, convenience, and personalization.
Read more about voice commerce in e-commerce
Move over email, there’s a new sheriff in town: short message service… a.k.a. texts!
The most successful brands meet their customers right where they are. And, in most cases, that means in the palm of their hands. Consumers are already texting constantly throughout the day, so it’s no wonder brands are beginning to reach out through the same channel.
While the open rates for SMS marketing are stellar, there are a lot of factors to consider when developing a successful strategy. It won’t do your brand any good to blast off a ton of texts throughout the day with no personalization or branding.
We took a good look at everything e-commerce brands need to know about SMS marketing, and the best practices to get started.
Read more about SMS marketing tips and best practices
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