Remote work has reshaped consumer behavior in 2025. Here’s what you need to know:
- 60% of the global workforce works remotely at least part-time, and 81% of companies use hybrid or fully remote models.
- Remote workers are spending more on groceries, less on dining out, and shopping online 70% more compared to pre-pandemic levels.
- 25% of remote workers have moved to suburban areas, influencing housing and local businesses.
- Consumers demand fast deliveries, with 90% expecting 2-3 day shipping and real-time tracking.
- Home-centered spending is booming, with ergonomic furniture and smart home tech leading the way.
- AI-powered shopping tools offer personalized experiences, boosting retention and sales.
- Health and sustainability matter more than ever, with 78% of consumers preferring eco-friendly brands.
- Flexible payment options like digital wallets and buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) are now essential.
For businesses, adapting to these trends is critical. Consumers prioritize speed, convenience, and sustainability, and companies that meet these expectations are thriving. Remote work isn’t just changing where people work – it’s redefining how they live, shop, and spend.
Matt Britton Reveals 2025’s Most Impactful Consumer Trends ‘A To Z”
1. Online Shopping Takes Priority
The rise of remote work has significantly altered how Americans shop, with online shopping becoming the preferred choice for many working from home. Last year alone, remote work contributed an additional $375 billion in online spending. Areas in the U.S. with a high number of remote workers saw particularly elevated spending levels. This isn’t just a passing trend – it’s the new reality for remote consumers.
Mobile devices are at the heart of this transformation. Today, mobile commerce accounts for over 70% of all online shopping. Mobile apps, in particular, outperform mobile websites, boasting 157% higher conversion rates and a cart abandonment rate of just 20%, compared to a staggering 97% on mobile websites.
"A huge amount of spending came from the increase in people working from home… If I am at home, it’s more convenient, because I can easily order without anyone looking over my shoulder, if your laptop screen is facing out and people see you buying clothes."
- Nicholas Bloom, labor economist and Stanford University professor of economics
Speed is everything when it comes to online shopping. Fifty-three percent of shoppers abandon websites or mobile apps that take more than 3 seconds to load. Companies that prioritize mobile optimization are reaping the rewards. For example, Nike‘s mobile app achieves nearly 40% more conversions than its desktop site. Beyond speed, simplifying the checkout process is equally important.
A smoother checkout process can make a huge difference. ASOS, for instance, cut cart abandonment by 50% and boosted conversions by 30% after revamping its checkout experience, while Dollar Shave Club increased conversions by 39% by reducing form fields and adding a guest checkout option.
Fashion leads the pack when it comes to online purchases. In the U.S., 43% of consumers rank clothing as their top online shopping category, with shoes coming in second at 33%. Even specific trends like loungewear have seen a surge – Vuori, an American sportswear brand, reported a 50% jump in sweatpants sales during the first quarter of 2020.
Social media is amplifying this shift. Platforms like Instagram, with their integrated shopping features, have helped businesses achieve over a 1,400% increase in traffic and a 20% boost in revenue. These tools make it easier for consumers to discover products and make impulse purchases.
From quick orders during a work break to fast home deliveries, online shopping continues to shape consumer habits. Prioritizing speed, mobile-friendly designs, and hassle-free checkouts has become essential in meeting the expectations of today’s shoppers.
2. Fast and Flexible Delivery Options
The shift to remote work has completely changed how people view deliveries. With consumers spending more time at home, they now expect delivery services to not only be fast but also to fit seamlessly into their schedules. Precision and convenience have become just as important as speed.
Speed is the new standard. By 2025, 90% of consumers will see 2–3 day delivery as the norm, and over half will abandon their carts if shipping takes longer than three days. Same-day delivery is also becoming increasingly popular, with 57% of frequent online shoppers expecting this option. What’s more, 70% of shoppers say they’re more likely to complete a purchase if a shorter shipping window is available.
The willingness to pay for speed is notable too. While 61% of consumers are ready to spend more for faster shipping, the story gets more complex with next-day delivery – 72% prefer it, but 61% are unwilling to pay extra for it. This highlights the fine balance businesses must strike between speed and affordability.
Transparency is key. Real-time tracking has gone from being a nice feature to an absolute must. A staggering 85% of shoppers say it enhances their satisfaction and encourages repeat purchases. Take OBI Poland, for example. By implementing route optimization software in 2020, they introduced real-time tracking and improved communication between customers and delivery staff. The results? A 30% boost in their Net Promoter Score, a 39% drop in "Where Is My Order" calls, and a 54% reduction in unhappy customers.
Flexibility wins loyalty. Modern consumers want delivery options that fit their lives. In fact, 44% of shoppers abandon their carts if the delivery choices don’t meet their needs. While 81% would switch to another retailer for better delivery options, only 37% are willing to pay extra for those perks. For many, convenience now outweighs sheer speed – 40% of consumers say saving time is their main reason for choosing on-demand delivery services.
"Consumers are demanding more visibility into their delivery options before they even arrive at checkout." – Guy Bloch, CEO of Bringg
Out-of-home delivery is on the rise. Options like parcel lockers, pickup points, and retail locations are becoming increasingly popular, especially among remote workers. In Europe, three out of five shoppers now return items via parcel shops or lockers.
"Out-of-home delivery offers significant advantages, including higher delivery success rates and reduced last-mile costs. As ecommerce evolves, offering flexible delivery options is crucial to staying competitive and meeting modern consumer expectations." – Rehab El Hadari, Senior Partnerships Manager at Sendcloud
Returns matter too. A hassle-free return process is just as important as the initial delivery. Ninety-two percent of consumers say they’re more likely to shop again with a retailer if returns are easy. Remote workers, in particular, appreciate return options that don’t require labels, printers, or even leaving their home office.
Today’s consumers expect more control, seamless tracking, and delivery options that adapt to their needs. Meeting these demands is no longer optional – it’s the new baseline for success.
3. Combined Online and In-Store Shopping
The lines between digital and physical shopping are blurring as more consumers move effortlessly between online research and in-store visits. This shift is particularly evident among remote workers, who can seamlessly browse online during breaks and pick up items in person when convenient.
Retail strategies are evolving alongside delivery options. Today, 73% of customers use multiple shopping channels, and businesses with strong omnichannel strategies retain 89% of their customers, compared to just 33% for less integrated approaches. Additionally, 87% of shoppers research online before making in-store purchases, and 55% prefer online or hybrid shopping experiences.
One major driver of this trend is click-and-collect services. Nearly two-thirds of U.S. retailers now offer Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store (BOPIS), and 72% of consumers appreciate this convenience. Interestingly, 67% of click-and-collect customers make additional purchases when picking up their orders, and this model is expected to account for 20% of all e-commerce spending by 2027.
Retailers are leading the charge with innovative solutions. For instance, Target introduced a Drive Up service in January 2025, integrating it with Apple CarPlay for hands-free updates. Meanwhile, Zara has enhanced its omnichannel approach by implementing real-time inventory tracking and streamlining in-store pickup through mobile platforms.
Omnichannel shoppers are proving to be highly valuable, spending 1.5 times more per month than those who stick to a single channel, even though 80% of transactions still happen in physical stores. Emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) are further enhancing the shopping experience. 71% of consumers prefer brands that offer AR tools, which help them visualize purchases and make more confident decisions.
"The sooner we drop the ‘e’ out of ‘e-commerce’ and just call it commerce, the better." – Bob Willett, former president of Best Buy International
Personalization is another key factor in this transformation. Retailers like Walmart are using advanced tools to predict customer demand and optimize inventory, ensuring that shoppers find what they need when they need it.
In addition to convenience, physical stores are becoming destinations for unique, event-driven experiences that can’t be replicated online. By incorporating advanced in-store technology and running cross-platform promotions, retailers are creating spaces that attract and retain customers.
For remote workers, this seamless integration of online and offline shopping means they can research products during work hours, reserve items for weekend pickups, and enjoy a shopping experience tailored to their schedules. The future of retail isn’t about choosing between online and in-store – it’s about blending the two into one smooth, unified journey.
4. Home-Centered Spending Priorities
The rise of remote work has reshaped how Americans allocate their spending. With fewer expenses tied to commuting and office attire, many remote workers are channeling their budgets into enhancing their home environments. Take the U.S. work-from-home furniture market as an example: it’s expected to grow from $3.21 billion in 2024 to $5.60 billion by 2030, reflecting an annual growth rate of 9.78%. This trend highlights a growing focus on home improvements that prioritize both comfort and productivity.
Ergonomic furniture has become a key priority for those spending long hours working from home. Standing desks, for instance, have surged in popularity, with studies showing they can boost productivity by 45%. Options like the Uplift V2 Standing Desk, starting at $599, cater to those seeking premium solutions, while budget-friendly alternatives such as the FlexiSpot AlcoveRiser M7, priced at $160, make ergonomic upgrades more accessible.
Spending on smart home technology is also on the rise. The smart home market is projected to hit $174.0 billion by 2025, with household penetration climbing from 77.6% in 2025 to 92.5% by 2029. Remote workers are investing in connected security systems, smart lighting, and energy-efficient devices that make their homes more efficient and comfortable.
"The evolution of fully integrated smart home ecosystems is redefining convenience, efficiency, and safety for homeowners." – Khoi Vo, CEO of the American Society of Interior Designers
As smart devices become essential to daily routines, companies are stepping up by offering home office stipends and lifestyle spending accounts (LSAs) to help cover these costs. Instead of traditional perks like branded swag or virtual events, remote employees now prefer benefits that directly enhance their work-from-home setups – funding items like ergonomic chairs or high-speed internet.
Lighting and sound solutions are also gaining traction. Remote workers are upgrading their spaces with desk lamps, monitor light bars, and sound-absorbing materials to create professional-quality work environments. For example, the IKEA Forså Work Lamp, priced at $35, offers an affordable upgrade, while the Gantri Gallery Task Light at $248 caters to those seeking a more premium option.
With North Americans spending 90% of their time indoors, there’s also a focus on products that promote well-being. Even niche markets like pet furniture are seeing growth, with the global market valued at $1.74 billion – partly driven by remote workers ensuring their pets are comfortable during video calls.
This shift in spending reflects a broader transformation in how people view their homes. No longer just spaces for relaxation, homes are evolving into dynamic, multi-functional environments that support productivity, comfort, and professional success. Companies that align their benefits with this new reality are fostering happier, more effective remote teams.
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5. AI-Powered Personal Shopping
Online shoppers today want more than just convenience – they expect experiences tailored to their individual tastes and habits. With people spending more time working and relaxing at home, artificial intelligence (AI) is stepping up to deliver highly personalized shopping journeys.
The numbers tell a compelling story. The retail AI market hit $11.6 billion in 2024 and is forecasted to grow at an impressive annual rate of 23% through 2030. Similarly, the e-commerce AI market surged from $7.25 billion in 2024 to $9.01 billion in 2025, with projections suggesting it could top $64.03 billion by 2034. This rapid expansion underscores AI’s growing role in shaping the shopping experience.
AI doesn’t just suggest items based on past purchases. It analyzes browsing history, buying trends, and real-time interactions to predict what customers might need next. This level of personalization pays off: 65% of shoppers are more likely to stick with retailers that offer tailored experiences, and 45% are more likely to shop on platforms with personalized recommendations.
"AI-driven personalization will go full Black Mirror in some cases, where your virtual assistant might ask, ‘Are you sure you don’t need those hiking boots before your Yellowstone trip next month?’" – Lars Nyman, Chief Marketing Officer at CUDO Compute
Big retailers are already reaping the benefits. One multi-channel retail brand that adopted an AI-powered platform saw dramatic results: 25% faster order processing, a 22% boost in customer retention, and an 18% increase in revenue. These successes highlight how AI is transforming the way businesses engage with their customers.
But AI isn’t stopping at recommendations. Voice commerce is making waves, especially for remote workers who appreciate hands-free convenience. In February 2024, Amazon launched Rufus, a voice assistant that helps shoppers find products by answering questions about size, material, color, and budget. Walmart has also joined the voice commerce trend, offering shopping through Google Assistant and Siri. Other innovations, like ASOS’s Style Match app with its 85,000-product catalog and Sephora’s Virtual Artist for virtual makeup trials, show how interactive technology is reshaping online shopping.
AI chatbots are also changing the game. Available 24/7, they’ve driven a staggering 1,950% increase in traffic to retail sites on Cyber Monday compared to the previous year. Companies using these tools report a 67% boost in sales. Beyond chatbots, AI is delivering personalized recommendations straight to mobile lock screens and creating seamless transitions between online and offline shopping. Examples like REWE’s use of AI for demand forecasting to cut food waste and Levi Strauss leveraging predictive analytics to optimize inventory illustrate how AI is making retail smarter and more efficient.
For remote workers, this level of personalization is becoming a must-have. A whopping 91% of consumers say they’re more likely to shop with brands that recognize their preferences and offer relevant recommendations. Not only does this make shopping easier for busy professionals, but it also deepens the connection between brands and their customers.
"AI agents will only continue to revolutionize and personalize shopping as they become more sophisticated." – Rich Berkman, Senior Partner, IBM Consulting
AI-powered shopping tools are setting a new standard for convenience and personalization, offering remote professionals a more intuitive and efficient way to shop. To explore more strategies and insights, visit the Remote Success Hub.
6. Health and Environmental Awareness
Remote work has reshaped the way people think about their health and their impact on the planet. Spending more time at home has led workers to focus on their physical well-being and make more environmentally conscious decisions. For example, remote workers are 62% more likely to support companies that prioritize environmental protection and actively seek out products with eco-friendly packaging compared to those who work in traditional office settings. This shift in mindset is influencing both product design and market demand.
The health and wellness industry is thriving, with projections estimating it will reach $1.086 trillion by 2034, growing at an annual rate of 7.4%. Remote workers are a driving force behind this growth, investing in items like ergonomic chairs and blue light blocking glasses to mitigate the physical toll of extended screen time.
Beyond physical health, mental wellness is becoming a major focus. The global wellness market is expected to exceed $1.8 trillion as more people turn to holistic health solutions. This trend reflects a broader desire for balance and well-being in all aspects of life.
Environmental values are also shaping consumer behavior. A striking 78% of consumers now prefer businesses that align with their green principles. Remote workers, in particular, are willing to pay an average 9.7% premium for sustainable and ethical products. This shift has significant consequences for brand loyalty: 30% of consumers have stopped buying from certain brands due to ethical concerns, and 84% say poor environmental practices would make them abandon a company altogether.
"Remote work is no longer just about convenience. It’s about conscience." – Olabode Omolere, Energy Management and Environmental Design Consultant
Businesses are adapting quickly to these demands. In January 2025, Amway introduced a wellness program focusing on four key pillars of health, paired with supplements designed to improve gut health. Subscription models are also gaining popularity, offering remote workers the ease of regular deliveries for vitamins and other wellness products. These developments build on earlier trends in personalized, home-centered spending.
Sustainable products now account for 17% of the market and are growing 2.7 times faster than traditional options. They also perform better online, making them especially appealing to digital-savvy consumers.
Remote workers are dedicating more time to researching their purchases, prioritizing items that support both their health and the environment. For those seeking trusted advice on eco-friendly and wellness-focused products, platforms like Remote Success Hub provide valuable guidance for navigating these emerging trends.
7. Flexible Payment Methods
As remote work reshapes how we handle daily expenses, having a variety of payment options has become more important than ever. The days of relying solely on cash and credit cards are fading, replaced by a mix of modern payment solutions that give people more control over their finances.
A whopping 81% of consumers now place high value on flexible payment methods. This includes digital wallets, mobile payments, peer-to-peer platforms like Venmo, and buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services. For businesses, meeting this expectation is key to keeping customers happy.
Digital wallets are taking the lead in this shift. About 44% of consumers expect to use them more frequently in the near future. Among Gen Z, this trend is even more pronounced: 60% anticipate increased use, with 37% planning to rely on digital wallets for most transactions, and 18% intending to use them exclusively. Wearable technology is also playing a role, with 36% of Gen Z and 30% of Millennials already using payment features integrated into devices like smartwatches.
Beyond convenience, digital wallets are driving a massive financial shift. By 2025, transactions via digital wallets in the U.S. are expected to hit $1.8 trillion, according to Statista. Alongside wallets, BNPL services are also changing how people manage their spending.
BNPL services, in particular, are a game-changer for remote workers with unpredictable incomes. Over the past year, 56% of consumers reported using BNPL, and 41% of U.S. adults have utilized these services in the last 12 months. BNPL lets users split purchases into manageable, scheduled payments without the complexity of traditional credit. For financially stretched high earners, 75% turn to BNPL plans to help manage their budgets. These services often come with perks like interest-free periods, clear terms, and no hidden fees – qualities that set them apart from credit cards.
Remote work stipends are also shaping payment habits. Many companies now offer monthly stipends ranging from $50 to $250 – or about $1,000 annually – to cover remote work expenses. Interestingly, four out of five employees say they’d rather have new perks like this than a salary bump.
The growing demand for flexible payments reflects how remote workers are rethinking financial management. About 70% of customers prefer to shop with businesses that accept their favorite payment methods. To meet these expectations, many businesses are expanding their options, incorporating everything from traditional credit cards to cutting-edge solutions like cryptocurrencies, contactless payments, and even biometric verification.
"Flexible payment options drive the adoption of Pay by Bank. We find that avenue is far more successful when the option to Pay by Card is also available. The bank is supplementary to the card." – Donal McGuinness, CEO at Prommt
For those looking to make the most of these changes, platforms like Remote Success Hub provide tips on managing finances and getting the most out of flexible payment options in a remote work setup.
And this trend isn’t slowing down. Globally, digital wallet transactions are projected to surpass $10 trillion by 2026. As remote work continues to evolve, workers will have even more ways to handle their finances in ways that suit their lifestyles and work routines.
Conclusion
The rise of remote work has reshaped how Americans shop, spend, and interact with brands. These seven trends illustrate the evolving consumer behavior that businesses must adapt to in order to remain competitive.
The statistics speak volumes. 91% of employees worldwide prefer to work fully or mostly remotely, and as of August 2024, 22.8% of U.S. employees work remotely at least part-time. That’s roughly 35.1 million Americans whose unique preferences businesses need to address.
Consider how companies like Wildling in Germany and Monos have capitalized on this shift. Wildling saw a 50% increase in first-time showroom shoppers by blending online and offline experiences. Similarly, Monos reported 40% year-over-year revenue growth in areas with physical stores after unifying their digital and physical presence. These examples showcase the potential of understanding and meeting the needs of remote-working consumers.
The financial upside of these changes is hard to ignore. Research shows that increasing customer retention by just 5% can lead to a 25% to 95% boost in profits. With 73% of customers expecting personalized services and 80% valuing the overall experience as much as the product itself, businesses that fail to evolve risk falling behind.
"Successful businesses will likely be those with the agility to evolve with these shifting work preferences. These shifts in consumer behavior can bring strategic opportunities to adjust product portfolio mixes and routes-to-market, tweak operating models, and take a fresh look at profit contributions." – Stephen Rogers, Managing Director, Deloitte’s Consumer Industry Center
The companies that will succeed are those that see remote workers not just as employees, but as consumers with distinct habits. These individuals prioritize convenience, flexibility, and authenticity. They want multiple payment options, fast delivery, and products that align with their values, including sustainability. Businesses that embrace these demands – while maintaining an agile approach – will set themselves apart in this new consumer landscape.
The future belongs to those who combine digital ease, environmentally conscious practices, and forward-thinking strategies. The remote work era isn’t just a challenge; it’s an opportunity for businesses to redefine themselves and lead the way.
FAQs
How can businesses meet the growing demand for faster and more flexible delivery options from remote consumers?
To meet the growing demand for speed and convenience from remote consumers, businesses need to focus on making delivery operations more efficient. One way to achieve this is by establishing smaller, decentralized warehouses closer to major markets. This approach helps reduce transit times and ensures faster deliveries. Additionally, leveraging AI tools can provide customers with more accurate delivery estimates, enhancing transparency and trust.
Another key strategy is to expand last-mile delivery options. Whether through building in-house delivery fleets or teaming up with local couriers, businesses can improve their ability to respond quickly to customer needs.
Exploring advanced delivery technologies like autonomous vehicles, drones, or delivery robots can also play a big role in cutting costs while boosting efficiency. By focusing on fast, reliable, and convenient delivery solutions, businesses can create a smooth and satisfying experience that meets the expectations of remote consumers in 2025.
How is AI transforming online shopping for remote workers, and how can businesses use it to boost engagement?
AI is transforming the online shopping experience for remote workers by diving deep into personal preferences, shopping patterns, and budgets. This means more than just generic product recommendations – it’s about offering tailored suggestions, enabling virtual try-ons, and creating a shopping journey that feels both seamless and engaging. The result? Less time spent searching and more satisfaction with every purchase.
For businesses, this technology is a game-changer. AI-powered tools can analyze customer data to deliver targeted deals, create immersive shopping environments, and offer services that feel uniquely personalized. By tapping into these capabilities, companies can build stronger customer loyalty, boost engagement, and ultimately drive more sales – all while catering to the distinct needs of remote professionals.
How is remote work shaping consumer demand for sustainable products, and how can businesses adapt to meet these expectations?
Remote work has sparked a noticeable shift in what consumers prioritize, with many now focusing more on eco-friendly products and reducing their environmental footprint. With fewer people commuting and less office energy being used, there’s a growing awareness of how individual choices can impact the planet. Naturally, this has led to higher expectations for brands to reflect these values.
To stay relevant, businesses can embrace greener practices like incorporating eco-friendly materials, cutting down on waste, or supporting environmental programs. But it’s not just about taking action – it’s about being open about it. Consumers are more likely to connect with brands that actively show their dedication to environmental responsibility. Aligning with these values not only builds trust but also strengthens loyalty among customers who care about the planet.