As we head into 2019, we’re facing a pretty uncertain time. While 2018 was a year of growth for many retailers and brands accelerated by tax cuts and low unemployment, we’re entering a more precarious year. The stock market is in flux, many retailers are facing the reality of steepening tariffs, emerging markets are flexing their muscles as they take on a greater share of global growth, and it’s anyone’s guess on which way the wind might blow fickle consumers and their expectations for connectivity around every transaction.
That said, one could also say that the glass is more than half full, and that these challenges also present opportunities for savvy retailers and brands willing to face the winds head on. Here are 10 key points of view on what the retail industry should expect in 2019.