In a rapidly shifting retail landscape, marked by the rise of e-commerce, one thing has become abundantly clear: physical retail isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it’s making a triumphant return. While digital channels continue to grow, physical stores are projected to account for nearly 80% of global retail sales by 2025. This phenomenon isn’t just a trend – it’s a reflection of our deep-rooted need for connection, community, and the experience of shopping in person.
Having been involved in live events and charity fairs for over 25 years, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when communities come together. Whether it’s supporting local traders or bringing people together for a shared shopping experience, the value of these connections cannot be overstated. Through all the challenges—especially those presented by the pandemic—we’ve seen how essential it is to keep that sense of community alive.
While the rise of online shopping has certainly made things more convenient, it’s also led to growing isolation. Loneliness is becoming one of society’s most significant problems, and though we may not always recognize it, more and more people are withdrawing into themselves, missing the vital interactions that retail events and in-person shopping offer.
For retailers, creating memorable experiences has never been more important. Research shows that after the pandemic, many customers research online but make their final purchasing decisions in physical stores. Retailers must recognize this shift and rethink how digital and physical channels work together. It’s no longer just about putting products online – it’s about providing a consistent and emotionally resonant experience across all platforms.
Emotional purchases are on the rise. Consumers, bombarded by information, are looking for clarity and emotional resonance from the brands they interact with. Retailers who build relationships and connect authentically with customers are far more likely to succeed, especially in today’s economic climate. Brands must go beyond simply being seen; they need to be heard. Customers crave experiences that make them feel valued.
The future of retail is hybrid—where online and offline channels seamlessly blend. For example, while digital advertising can drive measurable ROI, it should never be relied upon in isolation. The customer journey is far more complex than one simple touchpoint. It’s the cumulative effect of multiple interactions. Consumers are looking for authenticity, and they want experiences that make them feel seen, heard, and understood.
We’ve seen a marked shift back to physical retail because people recognize that shopping isn’t just a transactional experience. It’s a social experience —an opportunity to connect with friends and family, explore new products, and engage with brands in real time. This has proven particularly true at events like the **Eat Nourish Love Autumn Fair**, where the act of coming together, touching products, and interacting with small businesses creates a sense of belonging.
In the UK, over 60% of retail sales are still made in physical stores, and the demand for in-person experiences continues to grow. Even as online shopping expands, the human desire for experience has not waned. Shopping is about much more than simply picking up a product—it’s about creating memories, building relationships, and sharing experiences. It’s the instant gratification of leaving with something tangible and the joy of being a part of something bigger than yourself.
In today’s rapidly evolving retail environment, businesses must balance data-driven decisions with the instincts and intuition of their team. It’s no longer just about what the numbers say; it’s about building relationships that transcend the transactional. Retail is a people business, and the brands that thrive are those that approach their customers with empathy, strategy, and a focus on the human experience.
Integrity matters. Customers want to feel that the brands they buy from are aligned with their values. Whether it’s a commitment to sustainability, fair trade, or simply delivering a great product, being authentic and true to your word is critical.
Retailers must trust their teams and empower them to make decisions based on what feels right, not just what the data says. Intuition has become a superpower—the ability to sense what will resonate with customers and pivot when needed. As we move forward, it’s essential for retailers to stay adaptable and continue learning, even when things get tough.
Despite the optimism surrounding the return of physical retail, challenges remain. From rising insurance costs to the ongoing pressure of digital marketing, businesses will need to hold their nerve and stay true to their core values. But with the right balance of intuition, strategy, and a commitment to community, we can navigate these challenges and come out stronger.
The future of retail will undoubtedly involve a blend of the best of both worlds: physical and digital. But at the heart of it all, the act of coming together, creating meaningful connections, and building community will remain paramount. Retailers who embrace this will not only survive—they’ll thrive and for all of those people who run events, have retail outlets we have to hold our nerve as this is what we need more than ever.