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We recently announced the findings of our 2nd Annual Holiday Survey, which revealed that delivery options play a key role in where U.S. consumers choose to shop. Let’s dig a little deeper into the data and hone in on these five consumer expectations for holiday shopping this year.

Black Friday numbers are in, and 2017 - as expected - is turning out to be a record year. U.S. consumers spent $5 billion online in the 24 hours surrounding Black Friday, a 16.9 percent increase in dollars spent compared with last year, according to Adobe Digital Insights, which tracks spending at America's 100 largest retail websites. A recent NRF study projects as much as $682 billion in total holiday sales, a 4 percent increase over 2016.  

Recently, online channels have been buzzing about the launch of Amazon’s latest offering, Amazon Key. The new service lets customers grant in-home access to Amazon delivery staff, using a computerized lock and a webcam for security purposes.

And though Amazon Key is receiving a lot of attention, not all of it is positive. Opinion pieces question Amazon’s intent, along with the repercussions of allowing an unknown person into your home. Comments on Twitter range from embracing Amazon Key to concerns about personal safety. And earlier this week, PC Magazine reported on how the system can be hacked. So what do people really think of the in-home access Amazon Key offers?

Providing last mile delivery to consumers is a complex undertaking in today’s market, receiving a great deal of attention in the media and from investors. Not surprisingly, e-commerce is the biggest driver of the changes that are already in motion to drastically improve options for consumers. From large retailers to local businesses, everyone can agree on one thing: that last-mile services have become a key differentiator.

Earth Class Mail has revolutionized and automated how businesses manage mail, creating a more efficient back-office and making it easier to collaborate. It previews mail contents online and allows you to decide what you want scanned, shredded, deposited, or forwarded. Businesses use a virtual mailing address provided by Earth Class Mail, and can access all of their mail online.

Following on the heels of FedEx's recent rate increase announcement, today UPS disclosed that they'll also raise some of their rates by 4.9%.

As its name implies, Unrefined Bakery has taken allergen-free baking to a whole new level. For seven years, the mother-daughter duo has baked delicious treats that aren’t found at your traditional bakeries, catering specifically to those who have food allergies or simply want to eat delicious, high-quality, and healthy baked goods. With six locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area now, it’s safe to say Unrefined Bakery has cooked up a recipe for success.

Chain Store Age & IBM recently released a white paper on how retailers can better fulfill consumer needs by getting merchandise into their hands faster and easier than ever before. Here are some of the key takeaways:  

“Customer expectations for the combined brand experience are higher than ever. For brands to keep up with the agility of their online competitors, traditional retailers need to make changes to efficiently and cost-effectively get merchandise into shoppers’ hands — all while delivering a consistent, positive customer experience.” But it’s not something that can be done overnight. Improving in-store fulfillment entails creating an operational foundation that effectively leverages a retailer's store network, inventory, and staff.

Earlier this week FedEx announced their 2018 rate increases, and retailers and other parcel shippers across the country are buzzing. Taking effect January 1, the average 4.9% rate increase will affect Express, Ground, and Home deliveries. FedEx also announced changes to their shipping surcharges and fees.

The traditional retail model is changing dramatically as the customer journey evolves and mobile technology influences fulfillment methods. At the same time, we’re seeing brick-and-mortar retailers shut down stores and file for bankruptcy almost weekly. In this day and age, it’s essential for retailers to adapt to the new customer journey and implement innovative methods to retain their customer base.