Shelf Life | Vol. 1: Retail’s Policy-Driven Pivots in 2025
As a new U.S. administration takes shape, retail and consumer product companies are already feeling the ripple effects. In this first installment of Shelf Life, I’m sharing five trends that leaders should keep close tabs on:
🔹 AI at Scale | Trending now + here to stay The AI gold rush continues—but with more scrutiny. Expect accelerated investment in automation, predictive analytics, and personalization, but also heightened regulatory oversight around transparency and IP.
🔹 Sustainability Under the Microscope | Long-term play A substantial shift in US environmental policy has potential long-term implications for sustainability efforts both domestically and globally.
🔹 Data Security & Global Sharing | Hot-button issue With increased concerns over social commerce and data flowing across borders, expect new policies governing how consumer data is collected, stored, and shared. This impacts not only tech platforms, but every brand with an e-commerce or app-based presence.
🔹 Social Commerce & TikTok’s Uncertain Future | At risk of markdown Is the TikTok boom headed for a bust? As the platform faces potential bans or forced divestiture, brands heavily invested in TikTok Shops must diversify. But don’t count out social commerce—YouTube, Instagram, and live-stream platforms are racing to fill the gap.
🔹 Trade Policy & Supply Chain Volatility | Enduring impact Expect shifts in tariffs, sourcing strategies, and reshoring conversations. Trade tension and incentives for domestic manufacturing will continue to reshape supply chains in 2025 and beyond.
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More to come in the Shelf Life series. Follow me here for sharp takes on the trends shaping retail, fashion, and consumer product companies. Want to talk more about how Gartner Consulting can help your organization? Reach out! #ShelfLife #GartnerConsulting