Top trends for retailers in 2025

What to look out for in 2025 as a retailer

The retail landscape is evolving faster than ever, with technological advancements, shifting consumer values, and innovative business models setting the stage for the future. Here are the top retail trends shaping 2025:

Sustainability as a standard
Omnichannel experiences
Social commerce and influencer collaboration
Content driven engagement
Circular economy

Enhancing Customer Experience in 2025

AI and machine learning are revolutionizing customer experiences, enhancing both online and in-store interactions with personalization and efficiency. Brands that deliver seamless, memorable journeys will foster loyal customers. With over 35 million treatments globally, IMBOX exemplifies efficiency, offering the world’s only under-a-minute in-store footwear protection solution, perfectly aligned with modern customer expectations.

Sustainability as a standard

Sustainability has become a fundamental aspect of retail strategies in 2025, reflecting a shift in consumer expectations and global priorities. Brands are increasingly focusing on reducing their environmental footprint by adopting practices such as biodegradable packaging and sustainable material sourcing.

The circular economy is gaining traction, with retailers launching initiatives like resale programs and recycling schemes to extend the lifecycle of their products and minimize waste. Transparency has also become non-negotiable. Consumers, especially Gen Z, are demanding clear and honest communication about how products are sourced, manufactured, and distributed. Retailers are meeting these demands by providing detailed product information, certifications, and sustainability reports.

In this new landscape, sustainability is no longer just a marketing angle; it’s a cornerstone of resilience and competitive advantage. By aligning their practices with environmental and ethical standards, retailers are building trust and fostering deeper connections with eco-conscious shoppers.

The IMBOX treatment is AllergyCertified and free from harmful substances. Since the treatment takes place inside the box, it is safe for store employees to apply and allows customers to wear the shoes immediately without any concern.

Omnichannel

Omnichannel strategies are no longer optional—they’re critical for competing in a market where customers demand flexibility, convenience, and personalization. Retailers who can offer a seamless, engaging experience across all touchpoints are poised to thrive in 2025.

IMBOX is the only in-store footwear protection service available worldwide, helping to drive customer traffic to physical stores. However, even though it’s designed for in-store use, IMBOX can also deliver the same high-quality service to online customers.

For online retailers and buyers, IMBOX ensures brand-new shoes are protected and preserved before leaving the distribution center. This allows businesses with both an online store and a physical location to provide a consistent service, offering a seamless experience across channels.

Social commerce and influencer collaboration

Social media is a dominant force in retail, driving purchases through influencer marketing and integrated shopping features. Platforms like Instagram are a hub for discovering new products, with live shopping events and in-app checkouts making it easier than ever to buy.

Content driven engagement

Retailers are increasingly becoming content creators, producing high-quality, engaging materials to build brand loyalty. From behind-the-scenes videos to collaborations with creators, content is a vital part of the customer journey.

Circular economy

Retailers in 2025 are embracing the principles of the circular economy, which focuses on designing systems that minimize waste and keep resources in use for as long as possible. Beyond resale and recycling, brands are developing innovative strategies like product-as-a-service models, repair programs, and modular designs that allow for easy upgrades and replacements. These efforts promote durability and reusability, reducing the need for new resources and aligning with consumers' growing preference for sustainable options.

Get ready for 2025 with IMBOX

Integrating IMBOX into the retail experience can enhance the trends mentioned by offering customers a cutting-edge solution for shoe protection. This solution benefits both retailers and customers, as it is fast, easy, and safe to use, while extending the lifespan of footwear and preserving its stylish appearance.

The treatment can be applied to various types of footwear throughout the year, including sneakers, boots, sports shoes, and sandals.

Sources for the article:
Business Insider "These 5 trends will steer retail in 2025"
Exploding Topics "Top 11 Retail Trends (2024 & 2025)"
abasto "12 key trends for the retail industry in 2025"
GWI. "10 retail trends for 2025: Charting the future of retail"