How we live and shop in 2025

DHL presents four future scenarios of what e-commerce could look like in 2025.The four scenarios were developed on the basis of a medium-term and global perspective, but do not intend to predict the future or present valid forecasts. Rather, by describing these images of the future in 2025, the study aims to initiate a dialog about the future of e-commerce in conjunction with the logistical implications.Scenario 1 - Hybrid Consumption in Convergent Retail WorldsA hyper-achievement society has developed around the world. Extreme social contrasts have become the norm in many developed economies, such as Australia or even France and the UK.Technology advances are only moderate. Smartphones and tablets remain people's constant companions. The devices have flexible screens that can be rolled out, folded and folded. Interactive displays as an interface to the virtual world are ubiquitous in the street scene. Retail companies offer their goods online and in stationary stores - multi-channel retailing has taken hold. Retail stores often serve only as showrooms to let customers experience the goods. Prompt delivery to any desired location is a standard service. Convenience is - for those who can afford it - a decisive factor in shopping. For the vast majority of people, however, the decisive consideration remains the low price.The scenarios on video:

2nd scenario - self-dramatization in virtual communitiesA middle class with purchasing power has developed. As a result, the concept of values has shifted: away from work and toward a leisure orientation. Self-realization and individual lifestyles are more important than success on the job. Lifestyle communities in particular are setting the trends. They also have a major influence on the purchasing behavior of broad sections of the population. Small, innovative online retail platforms serve the respective communities. Large online retailers and platforms serve the mainstream market. Stationary retail focuses primarily on experiential shopping. So-called wearables are an elementary part of everyday life. The wearable technology is used, among other things, to measure and optimize one's own behavior, for example when it comes to nutrition or fitness - and to permanently exchange information within the community. Due to booming online trade, the transport volumes of logistics companies have increased significantly. To avoid gridlock, some metropolitan areas have regulated delivery.Scenario 3 - Artificial Intelligence in Digital CommercePeople live in a digital world and other wearables are part of everyday life. Intelligent avatars act as virtual shopping advisors. They often act independently and purchase everyday goods for their "host," for example. Web stores adapt their offers to customer profiles in real time. Stationary retail and the showrooms of online stores also work with simulations tailored to the respective customer. In terms of delivery, in large metropolitan areas this is on the day the order is placed. Retailers and logistics providers already ship the goods - in some cases via automated solutions such as drones - before the customer has even ordered.Scenario 4 - Collaborative consumption in regionalized tradeTrade barriers and high energy and commodity prices have led to a regionalization of the economy. People generally buy locally. Sustainability and energy efficiency are the determining factors in shopping. Leasing and sharing models are therefore widespread. Personal property has lost its importance for many people accordingly. Availability is important.The large online portals are now active in the leasing business. In the regional and local environment, much of the bartering is also organized via smaller online platforms. In order to extend the service life of electronic devices and consumer durables, they are modular in design. Repairs and maintenance are thus easily possible. The majority of logistics companies offer spare parts logistics and repair services in addition to classic supply solutions.