The retail world has evolved a lot. Back in the day, people went on shopping trips during the weekend, navigating crowded stores and standing in long lines for fitting rooms.
But the emergence of online shopping has been a game-changer. Now, customers can shop for whatever they want from the comfort of their homes within a few clicks.
And yet, online shopping is still transforming. One of the hottest trends of online shopping is livestream shopping, where entertainment meets instant purchasing. It’s allowing retailers to create more meaningful digital shopping experiences.
Livestream shopping has already taken off in regions like China, India, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates. In 2023, more than 70% of people shopped for things online via livestream shopping in these countries. That brings us to the conclusion that livestream shopping is not just a passing trend, but it’s becoming the way to shop.
If you’re wondering what’s next for this shopping sensation, here are the trends you can’t afford to ignore.
Trend #1: Personalized Shopping Experiences With the Help of AI
One size doesn’t fit all. Entrepreneur magazine states that consumers no longer want to be treated like cattle led towards similar products; instead, they want to feel special. They are on the lookout for experiences that are unique and created just for them.
It’s not surprising that livestream shopping is evolving to be hyper-personalized. Of course, artificial intelligence is leading the charge.
More than 70% of businesses agree that adopting AI will change personalization and marketing strategy. That is because AI can process massive amounts of data in real time, which allows for customized approaches and more predictive insights.
AI tools analyze viewer data—like shopping habits, preferences, and even real-time reactions—to help hosts offer tailored recommendations. This level of personalization improves the overall buying experience and makes it more enjoyable and fulfilling for customers.
Research has shown that 56% of customers admitted to purchasing again from brands that offer online personalization.
Trend #2: Surge of Live Shopping on Brand-Owned Websites
Live shopping is moving beyond third-party platforms like Instagram or TikTok and landing right on brand-owned websites.
Why share the spotlight when you can own it? Host live streams on your website instead of any social media platform. This will allow you to enjoy full control over them. You can customize the experience, highlight your unique brand voice, and keep customers immersed in your ecosystem without distractions from competitors.
Plus, it will serve as a goldmine for collecting first-party data. That will help you better understand your audience and refine future strategies.
A responsive, user-friendly website is key. If you don’t have it yet, build your website right away. An AI-powered website builder can help you create a platform for live shopping at lightning speed.
These tools allow brands to integrate interactive features, streamline navigation, and optimize for both desktop and mobile users without requiring technical expertise.
AI-powered tools, Hocoos explains, deliver seamless customer interactions and stunning user interfaces, setting new standards for online engagement. Beyond costs, using an AI-powered website builder will save you time.
Trend #3: Mega-Influencers are Out, Niche Influencers are In
Remember when everyone wanted Kylie Jenner to promote their products? Those days are long gone.
Audiences now crave authenticity. Brands are catching on to this. Instead of splurging on one big-name influencer, they are teaming up with multiple niche creators who deeply connect with specific audiences.
Vogue Business comments that small influencers tend to have loyal fan bases. It is so because they are able to create deeper connections with their followers through more personal and authentic content.
A fitness coach with 20k followers promoting yoga gear feels way more genuine than a celebrity with 20 million followers hawking everything from protein shakes to makeup.
Trend #4: Cross-Border Shopping Without the Hassle
Growth is no longer restricted to domestic boundaries. Cross-border e-commerce—the international sale of goods and products through online channels—is surging.
The Chief Executive Group warns that businesses must leverage cross-border e-commerce quickly; otherwise, they risk falling behind competitors who have already capitalized on this growing trend.
Chinese enterprises, for instance, have established systematic centers that serve livestream videos close to the border to sell goods to Vietnamese customers. These centers ship about five million orders to Vietnam every day.
Even 17Live Group has launched a new cross-border live commerce platform to introduce Japanese products to Taiwanese viewers.
Whether shoppers are in the U.S. or Japan, they can tune into a livestream from a boutique in Vietnam, buy a scarf, and have it shipped seamlessly.
And what about the language gap? Forget it. AI tools offer real-time translation. Shoppers can ask questions in their own language; the host will reply in their own language, and AI tools will translate it.
Livestream shopping in 2025 will be more interactive than ever. From personalized experiences to cross-border capabilities, the trends shaping 2025 will make shopping more interactive, inclusive, and fun.
So, if you’re looking to stay relevant, the time to jump on the livestream shopping train is now. Trust us, you don’t want to miss this ride.
