eTail Palm Springs 2025: Key Retail Trends and Innovations to Watch

With the retail landscape shifting faster than ever, eTail Palm Springs provided a dynamic space for industry leaders to connect, exchange ideas, and strategize for the future. This year’s event showcased a range of insights, from shifting consumer behaviors to the rise of new technologies shaping the eCommerce experience. As brands seek to stay competitive, the ability to collaborate, adapt, and innovate remains more critical than ever. Here are some key takeaways from my time at eTail Palm Springs:

Collaboration Across eCom & Insights Partnering

One of the most consistent themes throughout the event was the growing need for eCommerce and digital teams to closely collaborate with product, insights, and marketing teams. In today’s retail landscape, data and insights are crucial for making informed decisions. By fostering stronger partnerships between these departments, brands can create a more cohesive and strategic approach to online retail, ensuring they are meeting consumer expectations in a rapidly evolving digital space. Breaking down silos between these teams can help businesses better understand customer behaviors, improve product offerings, and refine marketing strategies for a more seamless shopping experience.

At Behaviorally, we recognize the transformative power of data in driving such progress. Our advanced AI-powered tools and behavioral analysis enable companies to derive actionable insights from real consumer actions, helping them make more informed decisions across key areas like shopper marketing, packaging effectiveness, and digital commerce strategies. By leveraging our solutions, businesses can optimize their approach, foster deeper connections with their customers, and drive growth, positioning them for long-term success in a competitive marketplace.

The Rising Influence of the Hispanic Market

A topic that surfaced repeatedly was the opportunity within the growing Hispanic population. Many conversations revolved around how brands can better research, target, and cater to this demographic. With Hispanic consumers representing an increasingly influential and dynamic segment of the market, brands that invest in understanding their preferences, shopping behaviors, and cultural nuances will have a significant advantage in driving engagement and growth. Companies that successfully build authentic connections with this audience through language, representation, and tailored marketing strategies will gain a loyal customer base in an increasingly competitive landscape.

To learn more about how Behaviorally is helping brands connect with the growing Hispanic population, reach out to Behaviorally’s Gabriel Velez (VP, Business Development) and Elena Lunghi (Director, Customer Success) today. They can provide valuable insights into how we’re supporting companies in effectively targeting and engaging this dynamic market segment.

Embracing Experimentation: Test, Learn, Adapt

A powerful message at eTail was the importance of embracing a test-and-learn mentality. Many brands are open to piloting new AI solutions, services, and technologies, understanding that some initiatives will succeed while others may need to pivot. The key takeaway? Be clear on objectives, set realistic expectations, and recognize that even if a solution doesn’t work the first time, it may still have potential in the future. The willingness to innovate and adapt will be a defining factor for brands looking to stay ahead. Companies should view failures as opportunities to refine and improve rather than setbacks, making adjustments based on data and customer feedback to better align with their goals.

The Gen Z Effect: A New Kind of Consumer Engagement

Generation Z was a hot topic, with brands recognizing their significant impact on retail. Gen Z consumers are highly research-driven, taking their time to make purchasing decisions. However, once they commit to a brand they love, they become strong advocates, driving organic growth through word-of-mouth and social influence. To capture Gen Z, brands must ensure an easy and seamless online transaction experience, clear product packaging, and transparent communication on claims and benefits. Social media engagement, authenticity, and personalized experiences are crucial in earning Gen Z’s trust and loyalty, as they expect brands to align with their values and offer convenience at every touchpoint.

Future Innovations: Navigating the Unknown with Excitement

The future of retail is both uncertain and exhilarating. AI and technology continue to advance, and brands are eager to stay up to date with the latest innovations in eCommerce tools, personalization strategies, and insights-driven decision-making. The key is to remain agile, embrace technological evolution, and be ready to adapt to new solutions that enhance customer experiences. From AI-powered recommendations to immersive shopping experiences, retailers are exploring ways to enhance personalization, drive efficiency, and stay ahead of consumer expectations in an increasingly digital-first world.

Final Thoughts

Attending eTail Palm Springs reinforced the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and innovation in retail. As brands navigate the fast-changing landscape, those that prioritize strategic partnerships, cultural insights, experimentation, and consumer-centric innovations will be best positioned for success. The future may be uncertain, but it’s also full of exciting possibilities. Those who embrace change, leverage new technologies, and focus on building meaningful connections with their customers will be the ones shaping the next era of retail.

Contact us today to learn how our AI-powered solutions can help you optimize your shopper marketing strategies and drive impactful business decisions.

THE AUTHOR

Corey Zinser is a Director of Business Development at Behaviorally. With a background in marketing and sales, he has a true passion for partnering with CPG, health and wellness, and beverage companies guiding them through their upcoming initiatives, projects, or challenges. Outside of the office, Corey enjoys time spent with his wife and two children, whether it's exploring nature through hiking and biking or embarking on exciting travel adventures.

Connect with him on LinkedIn!