With Q4 just around the corner, we’ve been thinking about how the next three months will shape up. So, in this blog post, we share five of our Q4 trends and predictions. Of course, we’ll also share insight into how you can capitalise on them. Regardless of your industry, if you’re in eCommerce, you should read this. So, without further ado, let’s get into it.
Q4 trends in eCommerce
Gen Z hold increased spending power
The Gen Z audience is getting older. As the generation born between 1995 and 2010 matures, their spending power increases. In addition, with more of Gen Z entering the world of work, the disposable income of the segment is growing. So, if you can position your brand to tailor to this powerhouse generation’s distinctive needs and wants, you’ll be in a great position.
Of course, to appeal to Gen Z, you need to go where they are. From student discount providers to TikTok influencers and review sites, your affiliate strategy shouldn’t overlook the Gen Z audience. Instead, consider tailored deals, increased advertising spends and tenancy investment to tap into the growing market.
Conscious consumption is on the agenda
Circularity is on the rise, and customers care about the planet. Reports claim that second-hand fashion will overtake the fast fashion market by the end of this decade. While fast fashion still dominates the market at present, consumers are showing an increased interest in traceability and impact.
Use this trend as an opportunity to showcase your brand values. For example, do your jeans require less water than the average paid during production? Perhaps your products are British-made? Or maybe you’re offsetting carbon emissions and switching to recyclable packaging. Consider conscious consumption a chance to show your customers your sustainability efforts, using your affiliate network to amplify your story.
Quality over quantity
While consumer spending is expected to be on par with previous years, quality plays a part. According to Salesforce, 51% of consumers plan to purchase fewer holiday gifts overall. With consumers opting for quality over quantity, brands have an opportunity to market premium products to loyal customers.
When launching premium products in Q4, leverage your affiliate network to create demand. Put in the groundwork early to ensure your brand is the go-to for gifting. From offering complimentary gift wrapping to time-limited discounts, create desire early and continuously.
Savvy shoppers looking for promotional offers
With inflation on the rise, online shoppers want their money to go further. According to Digital River, 35% of shoppers have looked for discount codes, and 29% have increased their use of comparison sites in 2022.
Better value doesn’t necessarily mean heavily discounting your products. Instead, as conscious consumption and a desire for quality are key trends, you need to market your products so that customers can clearly see the value.
So, you can leverage your affiliate network in three simple ways:
- Ensure you’re visible on comparison networks.
- Partner with reputable discount platforms to provide a positive shopping experience.
- Partnering with editorial partners to amplify the USPs of your products.
Emphasis on key shopping dates
While seasonal shopping is predicted to start slightly earlier this year, the emphasis remains on Black Friday & Cyber Monday. Many predict that Black Friday & Cyber Monday will remain the top shopping days for eCommerce as consumers look for deal-based shopping.
Add in Singles Day, Christmas shopping and post-Christmas sales and buying appetite remains healthy. But, to ensure you’re maximising affiliate exposure across key shopping dates, you’ll want to read this blog.
Get in touch if you want to leverage Q4 trends and maximise sales with a bespoke affiliate strategy leveraging our trusted partners. With an average ROI of 900%, you can count on Conversion to optimise your program for success in Q4 and beyond.