Once a signifier of luxury or novelty, custom products and services are now within reach of the everyday consumer, thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence, algorithm-led platforms, and the COVID-era digitisation boom. Today, everyone wants to be the main character of their brand experience.

Technology has become central to shopping as COVID-19 has led people to seek out touch-free experiences. But how will augmented reality fit into the future retail landscape? How can it bridge the gap between e-commerce and brick-and-mortar to deliver convenience, safety, and a personal touch?

The closure of non-essential retail due to COVID-19 saw shopping become a mostly digital affair for many Britons. Yet while the future of the high street may be in jeopardy, people remain eager to connect with brands. How can pop-up experiences fulfil this desire in the post-pandemic landscape?

The COVID-19 crisis forced many Americans to reconsider their budgets and environmental impact, leading some to embrace the resale market – a penchant that looks set to outlive the pandemic for many Gen Yers. So, how can brands facilitate and reap the benefits of second-hand purchasing?

As people seek more interactive experiences in-store, and with a greater normalisation of e-commerce, Swiss watchmaker Hublot is blending luxury with gaming to win over wealthy Singaporeans, creating a gaming ‘universe’ to explore in its retail spaces.