Windhoek: Planning to bring home a feline friend but unsure what supplies to stock up on during the annual shopping festival? This year, simply typing your needs in the search box and the AI-empowered search will generate complete shopping guides within seconds, covering everything from cat food and bowls to toys, tips, and reviews. A similar scenario unfolding in China's ongoing "Double 11" shopping festival signals evolving shopping experience and consumption trends in the country's consumer market.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the "Double 11" shopping event this year is characterized by smarter shopping experiences, aided by AI technology. AI is making the shopping experience more seamless for merchants and consumers alike, with tools such as "AI housekeeper" crafting promotional strategies and "AI assistant" providing product images and videos. Platforms like Alibaba's Taobao employ "AI universal search" to generate consumer guides and personalized product recommendations, while JD.com's intelligent customer service has enhanced buyer consultations. These AI advances have allowed merchants to match products with precise consumer demand rather than merely pushing bestsellers.
Instant retail has emerged as a significant feature of this year's shopping festival. A consumer named Li in Quanjiao County experienced instant retail by receiving a computer within two hours of placing an order through Suning.com. This model integrates online and offline resources, facilitating cooperation between platforms and retailers. More than 30,000 brands participated in Taobao Flash Sales during "Double 11," and Mercury Home Textiles reported a ninefold increase in sales after joining this service.
The shopping festival has also seen a shift towards rational consumption. Traditionally marked by big discounts, "Double 11" has become an extended event with promotions lasting over 30 days. This change allows consumers like Zhao from Shenzhen to take their time choosing products they genuinely need without the pressure of meeting minimum purchase amounts for discounts. Livestreaming salesrooms have also adapted, moving away from aggressive marketing to emphasize product quality and technological advancements.
Li Mingtao, an e-commerce expert, noted that consumers are approaching "Double 11" with a more balanced mindset, reflecting a move from price sensitivity towards quality-focused purchasing. This evolution in consumer behavior highlights the ongoing transformation of China's retail landscape.