The technology being developed today is so advanced and seemingly futuristic that sometimes people question whether it's actually feasible. That's the thinking behind the campaign for the Amazon Dash button – unveil it just before April Fools' day to get people discussing whether it's real or not.

The traditional buying model relied on three steps: experience a need, shop to satisfy that need, then use the product. But with 45% of shopping journeys now using mobile to discover or buy, purchasing has been integrated into people’s daily routines. How can brands adapt to this new retail reality?

With the spread of technology, companies are exploring the ways household chores can be made more bearable. Amazon is appealing to grocery-hating mothers everywhere with Amazon Dash – the kitchen assistant intended to do for the shopping list what Kindle did for the e-book.

They may not be digital natives, but Gen X shouldn’t be underestimated when it comes to online spending power. While Yers are busy posting selfies on Instagram, their older counterparts are clicking ‘add to basket’ – but why does this ‘middle child’ generation love online shopping so much?