NRF Names Top Trends Affecting Retailers

The National Retail Federation (Washington, D.C.) released a round-up of some of the biggest trends affecting retailers now and in the future.

For instance, 3-D printing technology is starting to make its way into mainstream retail stores. Mattel (El Segundo, Calif.) launched a 3-D printer for kids and adidas (Herzogenaurach, Germany) has started a prototype offering a 3-D printed shoe, customized to customers’ feet, that it hopes to eventually integrate into stores.

Retailers are also increasingly making efforts to feature “real-looking” women in their advertising campaigns and even on their products. For instance, American Eagle Outfitter’s (Pittsburgh, Penn.) Aerie brand has made a commitment to forgo Photoshopping any of its advertisments.

Other retailers highlighted in the round-up are spearheading creative ways to connect with customers — from unique methods to get shoppers to sample their merchandise and spend more time in store to providing more personalized customer service.