Over the past decade, retailers launched smartphone apps and optimized their websites for mobile devices. Today, many are dabbling with next-gen shopping solutions like voice shopping on smart speakers, virtual reality (VR) shopping apps, and pop-up stores.
Blackhawk Network recently found that many Generation Z shoppers -- defined as folks born between 1995 and 2015 -- were willing to use these newer shopping solutions on a monthly basis.
Data source: Blackhawk Network. Chart by author.
That's good news for Amazon (AMZN 0.28%), which controlled 61% of the U.S. smart speaker market in January, according to Voicebot.ai. Amazon is also reportedly developing a VR shopping app, which could turn its online marketplace into a virtual department store. Walmart (WMT 0.41%), which acquired VR start-up Spatialand last year, could also be developing a similar app.
Pop-up stores are also becoming popular for digital-only brands. Facebook launched pop-up stores for its digital retailers, and LVMH is planning pop-ups for Rihanna's new Fenty brand.
Retailers that adopt these solutions could lock in younger shoppers, so investors shouldn't dismiss these new shopping trends as gimmicks or fads.
