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What’s Next in Retail | Key trends from NRF 2025 and HSO’s New York Tour

Discover the Retail trends we encountered from our New York store tour in Soho, Chelsea and 5th Avenue.

We discovered five most important trends for retailers:

  • AI in Retail
  • Personalisation
  • Convenience
  • Sustainability
  • Experience

in New York during our HSO Store Tour.

Welcome to New York, the place where retail innovates and pushes boundaries. During the annual NRF Retail's Big Show and our store tours through iconic neighbourhoods like 5th Avenue, Soho and Chelsea. Continue reading below to find out what exactly we discovered.

AI in Retail - Faster, Easier and Futuristic Shopping

AI is giving the shopping experience a huge upgrade. From personalised store suggestions to fully automated payments, AI is making shopping faster, easier, and futuristic. Think virtual try-ons, real-time recommendations, and walk-out stores without cash registers.

Amazon Go (Rockefeller Plaza)

With Amazon Go, standing in line to check out is a thing of the past. Using AI and cameras, the store automatically records what you grab. At the Amazon Go x Starbucks location, you can shop for groceries, order coffee, and get work done—all without registers or staff. Simply scan the Amazon app upon entry, grab what you need, and walk out. Need snacks on the job? Just grab them—AI will track them and automatically charge your card. Shopping has never been easier.

Personalisation - an experience that's all about you

Personalisation is transforming retail into an experience that’s all about you. Brands are offering customisation, with technology that takes your preferences into account. From products you design yourself to advice that feels like it was created just for you-shopping feels so intimate and unique.

Glossier (Soho)

Glossier is all about you. The flagship store lets you discover makeup and skincare your way. Personal beauty is at the heart of it, with technology that helps you find the perfect products.

With interactive skin consultations and AR filters, you can virtually try out products that suit your style. At the 15-meter long tables, you can test everything yourself. Add to that Instagram-worthy spaces, and you have an experience that is completely tailored to you. Glossier proves: beauty is personal.

Sustainability - Positive impact on the world

Brands are increasingly eco-friendly and want to have a positive impact on the world. It’s not just about responsible shopping, it’s about a future where we all contribute to protecting our planet. Think stores that breathe new life into old products, advanced technologies that promote energy efficiency and materials that are fully circular.

Another Tomorrow (Soho)

Another Tomorrow in Soho is about more than fashion. Style and sustainability collide in a store that proves that luxury can be ethical.

Each collection is carefully designed with respect for people and planet. Timeless pieces, made from sustainable materials. Interactive displays show where and how the clothes are made, so you know exactly what you are wearing.

Another Tomorrow shows that you can look sharp without compromise. High-end fashion, with care for our planet.

Experience - Making the right impression

Retail is increasingly about experiences that make an impression. Stores are transforming into destinations where customers discover, learn and are inspired. It’s not just about what you buy, it’s about what you experience.

Think spaces where technology brings products to life, workshops that teach you new skills, and concepts that tell stories in extraordinary ways. Shopping can be so much more than just transactions. This is retail you can feel.

Gentle Monster (SoHo)

Gentle Monster in SoHo is more of a museum than a store. Nothing here is what it seems, and that’s exactly the point.
The new flagship store, The Visitor, fuses art and design in a space filled with metaphorical sculptures and unique installations. You’ll feel like you’re in a futuristic exhibition. The glasses? They’re almost an afterthought—until you put them on and find the perfect match.
Gentle Monster turns shopping into an experience you won’t soon forget. It’s a work of art.

Convenience - Efficiency and Accessibility

Convenience is an indispensable factor in modern retail. Stores that focus on efficiency and accessibility gain the trust and loyalty of their customers.

Think of technology that eliminates queues, smart tools that make information instantly available and systems that recognise personal preferences. Whether you are doing groceries, quickly grabbing a snack or looking for daily necessities. This is shopping without the hassle.

Target (Soho)

Target Soho makes shopping easier than ever. This location combines Target's affordable image with smart technology and a touch of New York flair.

With NFC tags, you can get instant product information by simply scanning your phone. Exclusive collaborations and pop-up collections make your visit a big surprise. Here, it's all about convenience, without compromising on style.

Read our latest Retail eBook: Seven Steps to Boost Customer Retention in Retail & Distribution in 2025

In 2025, the key to success in retail and distribution is not just attracting new customers. It's also about keeping the customers you already have.

Read now

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From AI to sustainability, New York’s retail scene is inspiring retailers worldwide. What can you learn from New York? Get in touch for more inspiration.

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