2025 Retail Predictions

2025 promises to be another pivotal year for retail, as the industry navigates rapid technological innovation and the constantly evolving expectations of customers, stakeholders, and society at large. With P&Ls normalized after several years of pandemic-driven roller coasters, and with consumer uncertainty around elections and inflation largely stabilized, the industry is poised to return to its competitive roots. As such, in the coming year retailers will focus on responding to changes in consumer preferences and macroeconomic trends, deploying new technology, and balancing agility and scale with a relevant and differentiated consumer offer.

While the fundamentals of cost, margin, and revenue growth remain priorities for retailers, new themes are set to gain momentum in 2025. These five predictions – based on consumer insights, long-term trends, and expert consensus – highlight where the industry is headed.