E-commerce is changing fast, and as we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that technology is driving these changes. AI, augmented reality (AR), and fast delivery systems are creating a new way to shop online.
In an interview with Neetesh Gupta, an expert in the field, we discuss how these trends are shaping the future of shopping.
Reporter: Neetesh, e-commerce in 2025 is very different from what we knew. How would you describe it?
Neetesh Gupta: It’s like entering a whole new world. E-commerce is no longer just about buying things online. Now, it’s about creating exciting, personalized experiences. With new technologies like AI and AR, online shopping has become more interactive, and we can offer customers experiences that fit their preferences and lifestyles. It’s like a carnival of new possibilities!
Reporter: AI seems to be playing a big part in this transformation. How is AI changing the shopping experience?
Neetesh Gupta: AI is now like your personal shopping assistant. When you search for something, like a winter coat, AI doesn’t just show you a few options. It suggests a whole set of items—matching scarves, boots, and even accessories—all based on your style and budget. AI-powered chatbots have also improved a lot. They’re friendly, smart, and help you in ways that feel personal. They guide you through the process and suggest things that suit you best.
Reporter: AR is another big trend. How is it changing how we shop online?
Neetesh Gupta: AR is making online shopping much more fun. Imagine buying furniture and seeing exactly how it looks in your home before you buy it—that’s what AR does. You can even try on clothes virtually using your phone. Luxury brands are taking it even further with virtual fashion shows, where you can see clothes on your personalized avatar. It makes shopping more exciting and less risky because you can visualize everything before purchasing.
Reporter: Social media and shopping are blending more now. What role do influencers play in this?
Neetesh Gupta: Influencers have become key to online shopping. They don’t just advertise products; they tell stories about how products fit into their lives. For example, a skincare influencer might share how a product changed their skin, and suddenly, thousands of viewers want to buy it. Social platforms like Instagram and TikTok are now like shopping malls, with features like shoppable videos and live-stream purchases, making shopping a fun and easy experience.
Reporter: Sustainability is a hot topic. How is the e-commerce industry responding?
Neetesh Gupta: Sustainability is now a must for e-commerce businesses. Customers want to know where products come from and how they’re made. Brands are responding with eco-friendly packaging, carbon-neutral shipping, and ethical sourcing. But there’s still a problem with some companies pretending to be more sustainable than they really are. Consumers are getting smarter and holding brands accountable. It’s a step-by-step journey, but sustainability is definitely shaping the future of shopping.
Reporter: Cross-border shopping is growing. What opportunities and challenges come with it?
Neetesh Gupta: Cross-border shopping is amazing because you can buy unique items from anywhere in the world. You can easily order things like Japanese pottery or Swiss chocolates. But it also brings challenges, like fake products and shipping problems. Blockchain technology is helping by making sure that high-value products are genuine, with digital certificates proving their authenticity.
Reporter: Quick commerce is growing fast. How do you think this trend will impact e-commerce?
Neetesh Gupta: Quick commerce is all about getting things fast—sometimes even within minutes. This has pushed companies to innovate, using drones and robots to make delivery faster. But there are still challenges, especially in cities where drones get stuck, and in rural areas where deliveries are harder to make. Still, demand for quick delivery is growing, and businesses are working to meet this need.
Reporter: With all these changes, what challenges does e-commerce face in 2025?
Neetesh Gupta: There are a few big challenges. First, privacy is a concern. With AI and data tracking, consumers are worried about how much companies know about them. Finding a balance between offering personalized shopping experiences and protecting privacy is important. Another challenge is high return rates. Many businesses face logistical and financial problems because people return too many items. And lastly, new government rules around data and cross-border trade are making things more complicated for businesses.
Reporter: What does the future of e-commerce look like?
Neetesh Gupta: The future is both exciting and challenging. New technologies like Web3 will give more power to consumers and small businesses. AI will keep making shopping even easier and more personalized. Sustainability will no longer be optional; it will be a requirement. Brands that don’t focus on it will struggle to survive. For businesses, the key is to keep innovating and staying ahead. For consumers, it’s a great time to experience all the new ways to shop—though they might want to resist buying a second avocado slicer!
Connect with Neetesh Gupta on LinkedIn
The future of e-commerce is being shaped by innovative technologies and consumer demands. Neetesh Gupta’s insights into AI, AR, and sustainability highlight the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for businesses and shoppers alike. If you’re interested in staying ahead of the curve and learning more about the evolving e-commerce landscape, be sure to connect with Neetesh on LinkedIn. Join the conversation and stay updated on the latest trends in the industry!
Interview by Tech N Grow
