- Convenience tops price as the primary factor in UK and US consumers' purchase decisions for 2025.
- UK retailers are optimistic about growth, with over half predicting significant gains.
- US retailers focus on local expansion to combat fulfilment costs and supply chain challenges.
According to Metapack's 2025 Ecommerce Outlook, a pivotal shift is underway in consumer priorities, where convenience surpasses cost as the key driver of purchase decisions. The survey indicates that 76.6% of respondents would switch providers if faced with delivery delays, highlighting the increased importance of seamless shopping experiences. This trend is especially apparent among UK consumers, with 85.7% expecting diverse delivery choices and smooth returns, underscoring the need for omnichannel strategies.
UK retailers remain optimistic about growth potential in 2025, with 32.2% anticipating higher growth rates than in 2024. However, they face significant operational pressures, including competition (29.2%) and rising fulfilment costs (28.2%). Meanwhile, 22.3% of UK retailers plan to expand globally, while 21.8% focus on domestic growth.
US retailers, on the other hand, are primarily concentrating on domestic market expansion, with 27.9% prioritising local growth. They are addressing challenges such as fulfilment costs (25.7%) and supply chain disruptions (24.5%) by leveraging regional hubs and smart warehouse systems for improved efficiency.
Emma Clarke, Senior Director of Product Management at Metapack, stated that quick delivery, easy access for order pickups and returns, and a frictionless experience now define customer loyalty. Brands failing to adapt to these new consumer expectations risk falling behind in the competitive market landscape.
As ecommerce continues to evolve, leveraging data to anticipate consumer preferences and streamlining operations through technology will be critical for retail success. Retailers acting now to enhance the consumer experience and optimise logistics are likely to emerge as leaders in the increasingly competitive market.
