Saturday, March 24, 2018

Blog #1 | Social Commerce



Next Big Thing in Retail - Social Commerce?


Over the last few years, Retail landscape in the US (and across the globe) has been evolving very rapidly.  Digital commerce is disrupting a lot of traditional retail business models.  In today’s world, social media has resulted in a society where content creators are inspiring additional content creators and at the same time resulting in a culture of instant gratification. This is specifically applicable to millennial generation that can’t wait to get with the latest trend whether it is fashion, gadgets or even experiences.

As we know, various technology companies across the globe has already changed the way we think about using our cars whether it is in terms of renting owned cars or driving part time as on-demand cabs or a hybrid model where people rent cars from other people and then drive it as on-demand (app based) cabs.  I think, similar models could be applied to other consumer categories.  Consider the amount of clothes, shoes, and accessories lying unused in your closet, which can be used to make money by renting it for few days/ weeks – TRY before you BUY (or don’t even buy). I think, the lines between social media and ecommerce would be removed to such an extent that we would be renting consumer goods from our online friends and in the process make new online friends to rent/ buy more goods. Perhaps, renting or buying items would become as easy as hitting the “Like” button.

Blurring lines between social media and commerce would create additional opportunities for innovative (or disruptive) business models, and in this process a number of companies would either get disrupted or would scramble to adopt the change in consumer behavior.  On the other hand, I think, it would be a win for the average consumer.   

**** Disclaimer ****
This blog post reflects personal opinions of the author and is not sponsored by any company or organization.

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