Like the rest of the world, the UK retail industry is in the midst of major changes—so much it seems like every day presents a new innovation, a new roadblock, or another development to make businesses scramble for a solution.
But while it might look chaotic on the surface, consumers and stakeholders alike can rest easy knowing the market is in good hands.
Before we dive into some of the successes (and failures) experienced by industry leaders, let's review the existing state of the retail market and how it has evolved over the past few years.
Overview of Retail in 2023
2022 was an interesting year for the UK retail industry (to say the least)
It's no secret that the UK retail industry is massive. Consisting of over 300,000 individual businesses and employing upwards of 3 million people, there's little surprise that the sector passed £441 billion in 2022 alone.
That doesn't mean it's immune to turbulence, however.
Following concerns over inflation and a cost-of-living crisis, the environment was looking dire until a surprise surge in consumer spending during Q4 2022, with retail sales values jumping by 4.8%—the highest increase since 2004.
Sales volume didn't fare so well in comparison, but it rebounded with a .05% increase in January 2023 and another 1.1% rise in February 2023, followed by a setback of 0.9% in March 2023.
So, what factors are behind this fluctuating industry environment?
Current retail trends to note
As diverse as the UK retail industry is, there are several thematic trends we can point to as the primary drivers of these shifting conditions.
Shopping frequency is on the rise: UK consumers are spending more time and money in stores (particularly those over 40), with 65.5% reporting weekly shopping trips (a 6.2-point rise).
Fast fashion is in trouble: Following increased awareness of the environmental impact of this rapid-fire sector, fast fashion is being met with a harsh reality-check with 29.3% of Gen X consumers vowing to no longer buy from such companies in 2023.
Sustainability gets serious: Similarly, expect sustainable shopping to become more mainstream than ever, with 40.7% of consumers aiming to buy less things and keep them for longer, which could fare well for retail businesses prioritising a quality-first approach.
Value for money reigns supreme: Speaking of quality, budgets are tighter than ever and shoppers are looking for products that offer the best value possible. 62% of consumers say they've experienced a decline in quality of their goods, with 47% preferring to purchase items guaranteed to last longer.
Buyers crave engagement: The overall buying experience is set to become more immersive as customers desire more personalization and interaction from their favourite brands. Companies should expect to go beyond just selling products, with 86% of consumers wanting to hear from retail businesses via email, social media, and text messaging.
Expect these evolutions
Retail trends can be fickle, but they're often a good indicator of where the industry is headed. As the developments listed above continue to sink their teeth into the market, the following evolutions are likely to start taking hold.
Fusing digital experiences with in-person environments: What once sounded like science fiction becomes reality as digital and physical environments collide to create the ultimate shopping experiences. Think augmented reality mirrors, virtual shopping, and interactive displays that can be accessed in-store and online.
Transparency is the norm: UK consumers are looking for more information about the products they buy, and brands that can provide it will have an edge over those that don't. From food ingredients to manufacturing processes, the more information brands can offer, the better.
Delivery expectations stay sky-high: The wonder of two- and one-day delivery is here to stay, with consumers increasingly expecting fast and reliable turnaround times for their orders.
Automation transforms the selling process: From smart displays that customise product recommendations based on previous purchases to virtual assistants that help shoppers find what they're looking for, retailers have the opportunity to leverage automation in new ways and further streamline their shopping experience.
Our findings
Looking at the market from the outside can offer a helpful snapshot of its existing conditions, but there's nothing more valuable than insight from industry leaders who get hands-on with these developments every day.
Ian Timis: CEO & Founder of Oxocan
What struggles or challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?
“Oxocan is a relatively new and upcoming British brand with grand ambitions to expand and grow its product portfolio. As a start-up, Oxocan faced many challenges, including the ability to traditionally advertise its products on social apps, including Facebook ads, Google ads or TikTok, without getting blocked by these platforms. The company had to get really creative in its marketing approach to gain exposure and visibility; however, Oxocan wishes to keep its successful approach and strategies top-secret for apparent reasons.”
What are the most significant lessons you've learned?
“Oxocan understood from the beginning that to fully realise the untapped potential of cannabidiol, they had to continuously improve, innovate and excel in their customer's expectations. They had to harness and embrace CBD's natural power and potential benefits. As such, they built their business on four fundamental principles, including providing safe and quality products, customers always coming first, providing a range of products that cater to all types of consumers and thinking of their product's impact on the environment.”
Linda Goldspink-Lord: Founder of Poseidon Animal Health
What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned?
“The biggest lesson learned for me in building two successful businesses has been to focus on the importance of connections, and to genuinely show up when building business relationships.”
Nick Beighton: CEO of ASOS
Any words of advice for retail/business owners?
“Never be afraid to share your vulnerability, nobody knows everything.”
The future of the retail industry
It goes without saying that the next two years will be a time of rapid change and transformation for the UK retail industry. Though some surprises could be in store, we'll leave you with the following predictions:
Total retail sales will leap 1.7% to £544.53 billion in 2023
The grocery sector will experience the largest boost with a 6% sales increase
65% of consumers want localised shopping experiences (i.e., content in their language)
Seamless and flexible payment methods become a priority following reduced household incomes
And if you're looking for even more industry trends to keep an eye on this year and beyond, be sure to read our 2023 retail salary guide!