The future of commerce is no longer just about scale. Reliability, trust, and meaningful rewards now define loyalty. And consumers are sending a clear message: get the fundamentals right, or risk being left behind.

From stock availability and delivery speed to personalised loyalty programs, shoppers expect brands to deliver with precision and empathy. And while global players still dominate, local challengers prove that trust and cultural relevance can be just as powerful.

That’s why we created the DEPT® Future of Commerce report. Drawing on insights from over 9,000 consumers across nine markets—including the Denmark, Norway, Sweden, UK, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, and the Netherlands—the report uncovers what today’s buyers value most, where expectations are rising fastest, and how brands can respond with confidence.

In this report, you’ll discover:
– Why reliability is non-negotiable, and how late orders or poor returns can undo years of loyalty in a single interaction.
– How loyalty is becoming currency, with brands proving that exclusivity and tangible rewards secure long-term trust.
– Why ease equals loyalty, and how frictionless discovery, checkout, and post-sales support build emotional stickiness.
– What challenger brands must do to differentiate beyond price by excelling in service, expertise, and cultural resonance.
– How the next frontier of commerce blends operational fundamentals with live shopping, creator commerce, and AI-driven personalisation.

The future belongs to brands that can balance flawless fundamentals with bold innovation. This report will show you how to win in that future.