Let’s face it: 2020 has been one long year for everyone. In a year that brought us a global pandemic, divisive politics, and remote learning, it sometimes felt like 2020 might never end. But fear not, the light at the end of the tunnel is just ahead because 2021 is right around the corner!

Everyone has been wondering what exactly 2021 will look like. Here’s what we know so far:

-While early COVID-19 vaccines look promising, expect social distancing and mask wearing to continue for some time.

-Many schools will likely continue to offer some form of remote learning.

-Millions of American companies will continue to allow employees to work remotely even after the number of COVID cases begins to trend downward nationwide.

Taking this information into account, we’ve listed the eCommerce trends most likely to continue in 2021.

Smart Everything

According to S&P Global Market Intelligence, Americans own more than 45 million smart home devices. In the United States alone, it is expected that $43.671 billion will be spent on smart home technology by 2023.

Smart home technology includes:

-Televisions

-Stereos and speakers

-Home security systems

-Thermostats

-Outlets

-Lightbulbs

-Doorbells

-Door and window locks

It’s projected that by 2021, 28% of all American homes will be smart homes. With this in mind, it’s safe to say that smart home technology will remain one of the most profitable eCommerce trends in 2021 and well beyond.

Home Office and Remote Learning

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise, there likely won’t be a large reduction in remote work or learning as we head into the early part of 2021. There’s a thriving market for home office/desk necessities and accessories which includes:

-Laptops and Chromebooks

-Printers and scanners

-Smart tablets

-Office/desk decor

-Headphones

Whether a simple and functional or fun and creative space is needed for consumers’ home offices, it definitely appears that the remote work/learning environment is here to stay for a while.

Entertainment

While smart devices can be extraordinarily useful and economical, millions of Americans are just looking to have some fun while they spend a majority of their time at home. Some items that are sure to be trending into 2021 are:

-Game consoles

-Board games

-Puzzles

-Card games

-VR technology

-Cooking utensils and gadgets

-Backyard entertainment

Health & Personal Hygiene

Unfortunately, it looks like germ and bacteria-killing products will still be trending high as we head into the new year, including:

-Sanitizers

-Cleaning products and accessories

-Themed face masks

-Hand soap

-Air purifiers

-Germ killing devices for smartphones

Self Care

2020 forced many of us to take a long, hard look at the value of taking care of ourselves. More and more Americans are trying to focus on their mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing more than ever. Expect these products to be hot sellers in 2021:

-Home fitness gear

-Spa products

-Aromatherapy

-Herbal tea

-Luxury skincare products and cosmetics

-Manicure/pedicure kits

-Bath accessories

-Massage pads

The bottom line is that while we’re all hoping for a better year in 2021, some of the current eCommerce trends show no signs of slowing. The best way to stay profitable in your own eCommerce business is to follow the news, stay on top of changing trends, and anticipate consumers’ needs.

Happy Selling!