Ecommerce has been here for over a decade, but the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic made the world realize how convenient online shopping was. There is no more lockdown in Dallas as it was during the heat of the pandemic, but eCommerce sales continue to rise. That's because people cling to convenience when they find it.

As a small eCommerce business owner, you have to stay abreast of the growing trends in the eCommerce space. This will enable you to remain competitive and continue meeting the ever-changing needs of your customers.

But what are these trends?

This article discusses critical eCommerce trends every small business owner should know in 2021.

1. Social media presence: the big pivot to eCommerce

Before now, brick-and-mortar businesses depended on walk-in traffic to stay competitive. It was all about how catchy your storefront signage and exterior are and how you're able to pull in customers. But now, consumer behavior has changed. There's now trust for what they see online as they scroll their Facebook or Instagram accounts. And the convenience of not having to move an inch before acquiring the product compels them to click the "buy" button.

Hence, smart online retailers are leveraging social media platforms more than ever before. Startups without websites are even posting their products on WhatsApp status, and people patronize them. To remain competitive and relevant as an online retailer, you mustn't miss out on your social media marketing. Your competitors aren't sleeping.

2. Third-party logistics and fulfillment

Gone are the days when retailers in Dallas have to ship orders themselves. There are so many things to handle, including printing shipping labels, wrapping products, buying package material, and standing in line at the shipping office that is better outsourced to partners like Shape. E-commerce business owners are now leveraging third-party logistic (3PL) service providers. Such companies will typically offer you a space in a warehouse for your inventory and help you ship whenever there's an order. It's worth partnering with a 3PL Dallas company to ensure your customers get their items on time while bringing efficiency to your business.

3. Online grocery shopping isn't left behind in the e-commerce trend

One notable trend in eCommerce in 2021 is the sky-high growth in online grocery shopping. During the pandemic, many consumers had to depend on online stores for their essential needs, including groceries. To meet the growing demand, online grocery shoppers had to move online. And there's been a phenomenal 53% increase in food and drink eCommerce over that time.

But it doesn't stop there. Euromonitor has estimated a further 8% increase in online grocery shopping in 2021. Of course, people have awoken to the fact that they can shop anything online.

As a small online retailer, you must look towards meeting your customers where they're looking for you.

4. Consumers worry about future privacy concerns

Convenience comes at a price. To buy online, customers have to input some sensitive information. Credit cards, bank details, name it. There's hardly any risk now. But some consumers worry that as long as eCommerce continues trying to offer more, it may someday compromise customer privacy. 82% of consumers speculate that convenience would be the order of the day by 2025, and 80% intend to watch their online security more closely.

As an online retailer, consumer privacy is one thing you have to guarantee to keep them assured and relaxed.

Even more eCommerce trends will emerge in the coming year as consumer behavior continues to change alongside the industry. Be up-to-date, be proactive, and continue reaching your customers at the point of their need.