Exactly.com, a leading name in online retail strategy, has forecasted significant changes in the e-commerce landscape by 2026, driven by advancements in social commerce, artificial intelligence (AI), and agentic commerce. According to Mark Andreev, Chief Operating Officer of Exactly.com, these trends are set to redefine customer expectations around trust, convenience, and transparency in digital shopping experiences.
Speaking on the future of e-commerce, Andreev highlighted the critical role of omnichannel retail strategies and AI-powered shopping journeys. As digital retail evolves, businesses are moving beyond experimental approaches to fully redesign customer journeys and manage risks across all platforms. ‘Retailers can no longer rely on fragmented strategies,’ he noted, stressing the need for cohesive, future-proofed solutions to enhance customer trust and operational efficiency.
A particularly transformative trend is the emergence of agentic commerce, where autonomous or semi-autonomous digital agents conduct shopping tasks on behalf of users. Currently in its pilot stages, this technology is expected to enter wider testing phases as AI tools become increasingly integrated into consumers’ daily lives. By 2026, agentic commerce could significantly alter how product information is presented, priced, and consent flows are designed within digital ecosystems.
Andreev also emphasized AI’s potential to assist users in making more informed buying decisions. From comparing products to conducting automated purchases, AI-driven systems are poised to become a centerpiece of e-commerce experiences. This marks a pivotal shift in how everyday transactions are carried out, promising unprecedented levels of efficiency and personalization for both shoppers and brands.
For e-commerce brands, freelancers, and agencies, these transformative trends demand a reevaluation of their digital strategies. Understanding and leveraging AI-powered tools, as well as preparing for agentic commerce adoption, will be crucial for staying ahead in an increasingly competitive market.
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Source: eCommerceNews Australia
Source: eCommerceNews Australia
