Consumer preferences for retail, beauty and dining experiences are shifting in 2024. Today’s modern shopper is looking for innovative experiences ranging from new technologies to automated solutions. As more diners and retail customers head back into stores, they’re expecting a seamless omnichannel experience that matches an in-person one. As a business owner, there are areas you can adapt to cater to customers embracing new payment options, loyalty programs and automated interactions.
In-store shoppers drive more foot traffic.
Consumers today are returning to an in-store shopping experience, with 63% of respondents saying they typically shop in-store, while an average of 36% make their monthly retail purchases online. The majority (52%) of in-store shoppers say the physical retail space is a deciding factor when visiting somewhere new.
Digital presence and experiences are drawing in new diners.
Forty-eight percent of diners say that in-person dining options would drive them to try a new restaurant they had not previously dined at, while 45% say a restaurant website would inspire them to try someplace new.
Consumers of all generations showed interest in the ability to make reservations for locally sourced food events, like cooking classes and meal kits as other top incentives to try a new restaurant. Baby boomer (35%) and Gen X (34%) diners overall showed the highest interest in locally sourced foods as a way to increase their interest in a new restaurant.
Salon goers want a mix of automation and live staff.
Nearly two out of three consumers (63%) prefer automation to live staff for certain admin tasks at salons, barber shops, and spas. Automation is most welcome when it comes to sending appointment reminders (35%) and booking appointments (34%).
Square partnered with Wakefield Research to survey U.S., Canadian, UK, and Australian-based consumers over the age of 18. The Square Future of Customers report gives insights into how shoppers today are making retail purchases in person or online, the way they like to dine, and their preferences when it comes to beauty providers.
Inside the Future of Customers report you’ll find:
- From the best way to incentivize new diners at your restaurant to drawing in shoppers to your in-store locations, learn what mattered most to customers in 2024 and what they’re looking for in 2024.
- Generational insights for Gen Z, millennial, Gen X, and baby boomer shoppers and diners. Learn how each generation is approaching new technology in person and online, as well as preferences for payment types depending on their shopping or dining experience.
Click to read the Square Future of Customers Report
Looking for more insights on retailers, restauranteurs, and more? Read the Square Future of Commerce report: