Resources10 Omnichannel Retail Trends for 2025
Oct. 10, 2024
Retail Management

10 Omnichannel Retail Trends for 2025

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1. True Omnichannel Experience

As retailers strive to provide seamless shopping experiences, true omnichannel will become the new standard in 2025. Customers will expect to switch between channels effortlessly, enjoying a consistent experience that allows them to pick up where they left off, whether they're shopping online, in-store, or via mobile apps. This level of integration is not just a luxury; it's becoming a necessity as consumer expectations evolve.

However, achieving a true omnichannel experience requires overcoming significant challenges. Many retailers still grapple with siloed channel systems that hinder communication and data sharing between online and offline platforms. Rigid technology infrastructures can limit flexibility and responsiveness to customer needs, while a lack of personalization can lead to disengagement and lost sales opportunities.

To address these challenges, retailers must invest in comprehensive omnichannel solutions that unify their operations. For instance, Priority Software offers a robust retail management system designed to facilitate a true omnichannel experience. With a single view of the customer across all touchpoints, retailers can personalize interactions, streamline inventory management, and enhance customer service. This integrated approach not only improves operational efficiency but also fosters deeper customer relationships.

2. Blending Digital and Physical

While online shopping has taken the world by storm and hit a staggering $5.3 trillion in 2023, physical stores are still a vital component of the retail landscape. The blending of digital and physical experiences represents a key trend in omnichannel retail.

Today's consumers are tech-enabled and research-savvy, often utilizing their smartphones to gather information before making purchases. Retailers can capitalize on this behavior through strategies like click-and-collect, enabling customers to order online and retrieve their products in-store. This not only offers convenience but also encourages additional in-store purchases, as customers often browse while picking up their orders.

In-store mobile usage is becoming increasingly prevalent as customers rely on their smartphones to enhance both their digital and physical shopping experience.

Retailers are now integrating features such as mobile apps that allow customers to scan product barcodes for more detailed information, check real-time inventory levels, and even make contactless payments.

Additionally, interactive digital screens in stores enable customers to browse product catalogs, read reviews, and place orders for home delivery or store pickup, all while inside the physical store.

Incorporating augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies further enhances the shopping experience. For instance, AR applications allow customers to visualize how furniture fits in their homes or how clothing looks on them, merging the digital and physical worlds seamlessly.

Social commerce also plays a significant role in this blending. By integrating shopping features directly into social media platforms, retailers can create an engaging shopping experience that feels natural and intuitive to consumers.

3. Evolution of Payment Tech

The evolution of payment technology is poised to significantly shape omnichannel retail by 2025, driven by the demand for seamless and flexible shopping experiences. As consumers increasingly expect to transition effortlessly between online and offline channels, payment methods must evolve to support this fluidity.

One major trend is the rise of mobile payment systems, including digital wallets and contactless payment options. These technologies not only enhance convenience but also cater to consumer preferences for speed and security. By 2025, retailers will need to implement integrated payment solutions that allow customers to pay effortlessly whether they are in-store, online, or using a mobile app. This integration will facilitate a seamless shopping experience, reducing friction at checkout and improving customer satisfaction.

Additionally, the growing popularity of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services will redefine payment options. Retailers that offer these flexible payment plans will attract a broader customer base, particularly younger consumers who prioritize affordability and convenience. Lastly, as cryptocurrencies gain acceptance, integrating these payment options will appeal to tech-savvy shoppers and enhance retailers' competitive edge.

Schedule a no-obligation call with one of our experts to get expert advice on how Priority can help streamline your operations.

4. Mobile-first approach

With mobile devices accounting for over 70% of all e-commerce traffic, a mobile-first approach will be a key driver of omnichannel retailing in the future. This trend extends beyond optimizing customer touchpoints for mobile; it's transforming the entire in-store experience by putting mobile at the heart of operations.

In the modern retail environment, mobile point-of-sale (POS) systems are replacing traditional checkout counters, allowing sales associates to assist customers and complete purchases anywhere on the sales floor. This flexibility not only speeds up transactions but also enables more personalized interactions across multiple touchpoints.

Additionally, mobile back-office solutions and B2E (Business-to-Employee) apps allow retail staff to manage inventory, track sales, and access customer data in real time. This enhances overall store operations, making processes more efficient and customer-centric from the ground up.

At the core of this shift is the recognition that consumers now use their smartphones throughout the entire shopping process – from product discovery and research to price comparison and final purchase. Retailers must cater to this behavior by developing mobile-optimized websites, apps, and in-store technologies. This includes features like mobile-friendly product pages, augmented reality for virtual try-ons, and mobile payment options at checkout.

Implementing a mobile-first approach also enables retailers to collect valuable data on customer preferences and behavior across channels. By analyzing this data, they can deliver highly personalized recommendations and offers tailored to each individual's shopping habits and location.

5. BOPIS

BOPIS, or Buy Online, Pick Up In Store, is a retail strategy that allows customers to purchase items online and collect them at a physical store location. This model effectively merges the convenience of e-commerce with the immediacy of in-store shopping, addressing consumer demands for speed and flexibility. In 2025, BOPIS will be a significant trend in omnichannel retailing as it caters to the evolving expectations of consumers who seek a seamless shopping experience.

The BOPIS process begins when a customer places an order on a retailer's website, selecting a nearby store for pickup. Once the order is confirmed, the retailer prepares the items, often notifying the customer via email or text when they are ready for collection. This system reduces shipping costs and delivery wait times, appealing to consumers who prefer instant gratification without the hassle of traditional shipping methods.

As brick-and-mortar retailers face increasing competition from online-only businesses, BOPIS provides a strategic advantage. It drives foot traffic to physical stores, encouraging additional purchases and enhancing customer engagement.

6. Advanced attribution models

Advanced attribution models are analytical frameworks that help marketers understand the impact of various marketing channels and touchpoints on consumer behavior and conversion rates. These models evaluate how different interactions influence a customer's decision-making process throughout their journey, allowing for more effective marketing strategies.

As marketing becomes increasingly complex, particularly with multi-channel campaigns, the need for sophisticated attribution models will grow, making them a key trend in 2025. These models can be single-touch, focusing on one interaction (like last-click attribution), or multi-touch, which considers multiple interactions across the customer journey.

Advanced models, such as data-driven attribution, use algorithms to assign credit to each touchpoint based on its contribution to conversions. This enables marketers to identify which channels yield the highest return on investment (ROI) and optimize their marketing spend accordingly.

7. Use of AI and data analytics

AI has revolutionized the retail landscape by harnessing the power of data analytics to enhance customer experiences and streamline operations. This integration allows retailers to analyze vast amounts of consumer data, which can be a game changer for omnichannel retailing.

AI algorithms process data from various sources, such as online browsing behavior, purchase history, and social media interactions. This data enables retailers to create tailored marketing strategies. For instance, predictive analytics can forecast customer preferences, allowing retailers to optimize inventory and recommend products that align with individual tastes. This level of personalization not only enhances customer satisfaction but also boosts conversion rates.

Moreover, AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants improve customer service by providing instant support and guiding shoppers through their purchasing journey. As consumers increasingly engage across multiple channels, the ability to deliver a consistent and personalized experience becomes paramount.

8. Empowering employees with B2E applications

B2E, or Business-to-Employee applications, represent a strategic approach that empowers employees by providing them with the tools and resources necessary to enhance productivity and engagement within their roles. These applications streamline workflows, facilitate communication, and enable access to critical information, ultimately fostering a more efficient work environment.

Priority MyBranch is an exemplary B2E solution designed specifically for the retail sector. It allows employees to access real-time data on inventory, sales performance, and customer insights through a user-friendly interface. This accessibility ensures that staff can make informed decisions quickly, respond effectively to customer inquiries, and manage their tasks with greater efficiency.

As retailers increasingly adopt omnichannel strategies, the integration of B2E applications like Priority MyBranch will become essential. In 2025, the trend will be driven by the need for cohesive communication and collaboration among employees across various channels. Empowering staff with such applications enhances their ability to deliver consistent service, whether in-store or online, ultimately improving the overall customer experience.

9. Omnichannel opportunities for SMBs

SMBs are increasingly embracing omnichannel strategies to level the playing field and compete with larger retailers. Small and medium businesses are leveraging the power of omnichannel to deliver seamless, personalized experiences that align with evolving consumer expectations.

One key advantage for SMBs lies in their ability to provide a more agile, customer-centric approach compared to larger, more bureaucratic organizations. Integrating data across channels enables SMBs to gain a comprehensive view of customer preferences and behavior, allowing them to tailor offerings and communications for each individual. This level of personalization fosters stronger customer relationships and loyalty, crucial for SMBs looking to stand out in a crowded market.

Moreover, omnichannel strategies help SMBs optimize operations and resources. Unifying inventory data improves stock management, minimizes waste, and ensures product availability across all touchpoints. This efficiency translates into cost savings that can be reinvested into other areas of the business, such as marketing or customer service.

10. Operational Efficiency Under Cost Pressures

Saving costs is one of the most important challenges retailers face today, particularly in an environment marked by rising expenses and shifting consumer behavior. The pressure to optimize resources is driving retailers to focus on operational efficiency, which is critical for maintaining competitiveness. In 2025, this focus on efficiency will become a defining trend in omnichannel retailing.

Operational efficiency involves streamlining processes, reducing waste, and maximizing productivity across all channels. Retailers are increasingly adopting technologies such as automation and data analytics to optimize supply chains and improve customer service. For instance, intelligent automation can handle repetitive tasks. This allows employees to focus on higher-value activities that enhance the customer experience.

Moreover, a comprehensive view of costs across the entire value chain enables retailers to identify inefficiencies. It becomes easier to make informed decisions about products, pricing strategies, and promotional activities. This holistic approach not only reduces operational costs but also aligns resources more effectively with customer demand.

Embracing the Future of Omnichannel Retail

By 2025, omnichannel retail will be crucial for businesses aiming to thrive in a competitive market. Retailers must focus on integrating online and offline channels to meet evolving consumer expectations for seamless, personalized shopping experiences.

Priority Software plays a vital role in this transformation by providing comprehensive retail management solutions that streamline operations, enhance inventory management, and improve customer engagement.

To stay ahead in the dynamic retail landscape, book a demo with Priority Software today to discover how we can help you develop an effective omnichannel strategy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Omnichannel Retail & Trends

What is a true omnichannel experience in retail?

A true omnichannel experience allows customers to seamlessly switch between online, in-store, and mobile channels, picking up where they left off and enjoying consistent, personalized interactions. This integration is essential for meeting evolving consumer expectations and requires unified systems that share data across all touchpoints. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

How does Priority Software help retailers achieve a true omnichannel experience?

Priority Software offers a robust retail management system that unifies operations, providing a single view of the customer across all channels. This enables retailers to personalize interactions, streamline inventory management, and enhance customer service, resulting in improved operational efficiency and deeper customer relationships. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

What are the key trends in omnichannel retail for 2025?

Key trends include the rise of true omnichannel experiences, blending digital and physical shopping, evolution of payment technologies, mobile-first approaches, BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In Store), advanced attribution models, AI and data analytics, B2E applications for employees, omnichannel opportunities for SMBs, and a focus on operational efficiency under cost pressures. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

How does blending digital and physical experiences benefit retailers?

Blending digital and physical experiences allows retailers to offer conveniences like click-and-collect, in-store mobile usage, interactive digital screens, and AR/VR technologies. This approach enhances customer engagement, increases in-store purchases, and provides a seamless shopping journey. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

What is BOPIS and why is it important for omnichannel retail?

BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In Store) is a strategy that merges e-commerce convenience with the immediacy of in-store shopping. It reduces shipping costs, shortens delivery times, drives foot traffic to stores, and encourages additional purchases, making it a key trend for 2025. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

How are mobile-first approaches transforming retail operations?

Mobile-first approaches put mobile devices at the center of both customer and employee experiences. Mobile POS systems, back-office apps, and mobile-optimized websites enable real-time inventory management, personalized interactions, and efficient store operations. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

What role does AI play in omnichannel retail?

AI enables retailers to analyze large volumes of consumer data, personalize marketing, optimize inventory, and provide instant customer support through chatbots and virtual assistants. This leads to higher customer satisfaction and conversion rates. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

How do advanced attribution models improve retail marketing?

Advanced attribution models help marketers understand the impact of various channels and touchpoints on conversions. By using data-driven algorithms, retailers can optimize marketing spend and identify the most effective channels for customer acquisition. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

What are B2E applications and how do they empower retail employees?

B2E (Business-to-Employee) applications, like Priority MyBranch, provide retail staff with real-time access to inventory, sales, and customer data. This empowers employees to make informed decisions, respond quickly to customer needs, and manage tasks efficiently, improving overall service quality. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

How can SMBs benefit from omnichannel strategies?

SMBs can use omnichannel strategies to provide personalized experiences, optimize inventory, and improve customer loyalty. By integrating data across channels, SMBs gain insights into customer behavior and can compete more effectively with larger retailers. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

Why is operational efficiency critical for retailers in 2025?

Operational efficiency helps retailers reduce costs, streamline processes, and maximize productivity across all channels. Technologies like automation and data analytics enable better supply chain management and customer service, which are essential for maintaining competitiveness under cost pressures. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

Features & Capabilities

What core products does Priority Software offer for omnichannel retail?

Priority Software provides a comprehensive suite including ERP systems, retail management, hospitality management, and school management platforms. These solutions are designed to unify operations, streamline workflows, and support omnichannel strategies. (Source: Priority Software)

Does Priority Software support mobile POS and back-office solutions?

Yes, Priority Software offers mobile POS systems and back-office solutions that enable sales associates to assist customers and complete transactions anywhere in the store, as well as manage inventory and sales data in real time. (Source: POS & Back Office)

What integrations are available with Priority Software?

Priority Software offers over 150 plug & play connectors, RESTful API, ODBC drivers, and embedded integrations with leading vendors in hospitality, retail, and ERP. Examples include SAP, Webhotelier, Verifone, and SiteMinder. (Source: Hospitality Marketplace)

Does Priority Software provide an open API?

Yes, Priority Software provides an Open API that enables seamless integration with third-party applications, allowing businesses to tailor their systems to specific operational needs. (Source: Open API)

What analytics and reporting capabilities does Priority Software offer?

Priority Software provides hundreds of pre-defined reports and no-code reporting tools, enabling actionable insights for better decision-making. Advanced analytics help businesses optimize operations and customer engagement. (Source: About Priority)

Can Priority Software be customized without IT support?

Yes, Priority Software allows businesses to adjust workflows, field names, and screen layouts with no-code customizations, making it highly adaptable to changing needs without requiring technical expertise. (Source: About Priority)

What technical documentation is available for Priority Software?

Priority Software provides comprehensive technical documentation for its ERP solutions, including feature guides and industry-specific documentation. This is accessible via the Priority ERP documentation page.

How does Priority Software support automation in retail operations?

Priority Software includes built-in workflows and AI recommendations that automate repetitive tasks, reduce manual errors, and improve operational efficiency across departments and locations. (Source: About Priority)

What industries does Priority Software serve?

Priority Software serves a wide range of industries, including retail, manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, technology, hospitality, and education. Solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each sector. (Source: Priority Software)

Pain Points & Solutions

What common pain points does Priority Software address for retailers?

Priority Software addresses challenges such as lack of real-time insights, operational inefficiencies, inventory inaccuracies, disconnected customer experiences, and high IT costs by providing centralized management, real-time data, and automation. (Source: Retailer Pain Points)

How does Priority Software help with poor inventory management?

Priority Software optimizes inventory levels, improves forecasting and demand planning, and enhances supply chain efficiency, resulting in reduced overstocking, minimized waste, and increased revenue. (Source: Inventory Management)

How does Priority Software address fragmented data and disconnected systems?

Priority Software maintains a single source of truth for all operational and customer data, ensuring consistent and accurate information across departments and eliminating the need for complex integrations. (Source: About Priority)

How does Priority Software help reduce manual processes?

Priority Software automates workflows, freeing employees to focus on higher-value tasks and improving resource utilization, which leads to increased efficiency and revenue. (Source: About Priority)

What solutions does Priority Software offer for outdated systems or Excel reliance?

Priority Software replaces outdated systems and spreadsheets with a centralized ERP, streamlining operations, reducing risk, and empowering better decision-making. (Source: About Priority)

How does Priority Software improve customer experience?

Priority Software enhances customer experience by centralizing customer data, supporting loyalty programs, and providing efficient promotion engines, resulting in more personalized and consistent service. (Source: About Priority)

How does Priority Software help with complex order fulfillment?

Priority Software provides end-to-end order fulfillment capabilities, optimizing order routing, inventory utilization, and automating workflows to ensure timely and accurate deliveries. (Source: About Priority)

What are the main operational challenges Priority Software solves for retailers?

Priority Software solves challenges such as disconnected systems, inefficient order fulfillment, inventory inaccuracies, and high operational costs by providing unified, automated, and scalable solutions. (Source: Retailer Pain Points)

Use Cases & Customer Success

Who are some of Priority Software's retail customers?

Priority Software's retail customers include Ace Hardware, ALDO, Kiko Milano, Estee Lauder, Columbia, Guess, Adidas, and Hoka, among others. These brands leverage Priority's solutions for omnichannel retail management. (Source: Customers)

Can you share examples of customer success with Priority Software?

Yes, for example, Nautilus Designs reported a 30% growth in order volume thanks to Priority’s integration capabilities, and Cowtown Retail Chain achieved complete process visibility after transitioning from fragmented operations. More case studies are available on the Priority case studies page.

What feedback have customers given about Priority Software's ease of use?

Customers consistently praise Priority Software for its intuitive interface and user-friendly design. For example, Allan Dyson of Merley Paper Converters highlighted that employees can manage daily tasks without relying on IT, and G2 users rate Priority ERP approximately 4.1/5 for simplicity and configurability. (Source: Merley Case Study)

What roles and company types benefit most from Priority Software?

Priority Software is ideal for retail business owners, operations and supply chain managers, sales and marketing managers, CFOs, and IT managers. It serves companies in retail, manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, technology, and hospitality. (Source: manual)

How does Priority Software support omnichannel strategies for SMBs?

Priority Software enables SMBs to unify inventory data, personalize customer experiences, and optimize operations, helping them compete with larger retailers and foster customer loyalty. (Source: Omnichannel Trends 2025)

What are some real-world results achieved with Priority Software?

Customers have achieved results such as 30% growth in order volume (Nautilus Designs), improved project turnaround (Solara), and increased trust in data accuracy (Dunlop Systems and Components). (Source: Case Studies)

Competition & Comparison

How does Priority Software compare to Microsoft Dynamics 365 for retail?

Microsoft Dynamics 365 requires heavy customization for industry needs and lacks smooth migration from Business Central. Priority Software is user-friendly, flexible, and customizable without IT support, and ensures compliance with major standards. (Source: manual)

How does Priority Software compare to SAP Business One?

SAP Business One is complex, expensive, and lacks multi-company capabilities. Priority Software is affordable, easy to use, supports true multi-company operations, and does not require forced migrations. (Source: manual)

How does Priority Software compare to NetSuite?

NetSuite is a strong cloud ERP but is expensive and enforces contract lock-in. Priority Software is cost-effective, offers flexible quarterly commitments, and delivers industry-specific functionality without lock-in contracts. (Source: manual)

How does Priority Software compare to Odoo?

Odoo is open-source but has scalability limits, performance issues, and a long learning curve. Priority Software provides structured implementation, scalability, and quick user adoption with proven methodologies. (Source: manual)

How does Priority Software compare to retail-focused solutions like Aptos or LS Retail?

Retail-focused solutions like Aptos and LS Retail require multiple systems and integrations for full ERP functionality. Priority Software delivers an end-to-end solution with ERP, retail management, unified commerce, and POS natively integrated, eliminating costly integrations. (Source: manual)

What industry recognition has Priority Software received?

Priority Software has been recognized by leading analysts such as Gartner and IDC, and is trusted by companies like Toyota, Flex, and Teva. (Source: About Priority)

Why should a customer choose Priority Software over competitors?

Customers should choose Priority Software for its integration simplicity, single source of truth, cloud-based scalability, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, industry-specific features, automation, and proven trust from leading companies and analysts. (Source: About Priority)

Support & Implementation

What professional and implementation services does Priority Software offer?

Priority Software provides professional and implementation services to ensure smooth onboarding and optimal utilization of its solutions. These services include training, support, and tailored deployment strategies. (Source: Implementation Services)

How can I get a demo of Priority Software?

You can schedule a demo of Priority Software by visiting the demo request page or the book a demo page to see how Priority works for your business.

Where can I find more resources and case studies about Priority Software?

Additional resources, articles, and case studies are available on the Priority Software resources page and the case studies page.