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FutureofRetail0912[i++] = new Array("","Introduction","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Photos/070820/ecopod.htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "left", "", "", "110", "71", "#000000", "", "", "", "");
FutureofRetail0912[i-1].body = "For a glimpse into what you might be tempted to buy in the coming decade, consider the ecopod.
Priced at $328, the high-tech recycling bin mixes many of the elements trend experts think consumers will increasingly covet between now and 2017: gadgetry, a sleek design, environmental consciousness and a trend toward higher-quality purchases.
But still, more than $300 for a place to throw your old soda cans? Trend consultant Robyn Waters admits it’s intriguing that anyone will pay so much for what is essentially a garbage can. But, she said, it’s a garbage can with that has more meaning to the consumer than your typical disposal.
“It ties into what’s important,” she said.
And, Waters believes, we’ll only see more such products in the future.
Click on the links for a more detailed look at coming retail trends.";
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FutureofRetail0912[i-1].body = "
Sure, organic cotton and recycled materials are getting plenty of attention these days, but so far few companies are making much money on such items. Expect that to change in the coming decade, says Jane Hali, vice president with Coleman Research Group.
“I think we’re going to see more fashion with a conscience,” Hali said. “I don’t think that is commercial right now, but I would see that translating into dollars.”
A growing concern about climate change combined with the necessity to conserve ever-diminishing resources will also lead to increased interest in other environmentally friendly and organic products, experts say.
Perhaps the hottest trend? Hybrid cars. Waters thinks a sure hit will be a luxurious, sporty hybrid vehicle that’s also affordable.
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FutureofRetail0912[i-1].body = "
There was a time when we accepted the computer, the VCR and other early tech gadgets for pretty much what they were _ often ugly, difficult to use and of varying quality, but ultimately worth the sacrifice.
No more. As the iPod and iPhone are starting to prove, it’s not just quality and simplicity the make for a hit gadget these days – it’s also got to look good.
In the coming years, Waters expects that consumers will come to demand that their useful gadgets also are aesthetically pleasing, and that are known as much for form as for function.
That means technology companies will need to understand that even the most whiz-bang device won’t sell if it’s packaged in a gunmetal gray clunker.";
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Americans love to shop, and no one expects that to change. But in the coming five to 10 years, some experts think more people will want to spend their shopping time at businesses that do good. Waters points to companies like Starbucks, Costco and American Apparel, all known for above-average benefits, as examples of such trendsetters.
“Nobody needs another pair of jeans, another cup of coffee, another baseball cap,” Waters said.
But what they do need? A feeling that their purchasing decisions have meaning.
She thinks the trend could even extend into the travel business, with more people, especially baby boomers, booking luxury vacations that also include a chance to do volunteer work or other types of philanthropy.
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Over the next three to five years, Hali expects Americans to grow less enamored of “cheap chic” and more interested in higher quality clothing items. She notes that some companies that made their mark with lower-cost styles, such as H&M and Forever 21, are already experimenting with higher-end fashion.
Waters thinks some Americans also may grow tired of the trend toward more more more, and instead look to purchase select, higher-quality items. She calls it “the claustrophobia of abundance.”
“There’s just so much stuff,” she said.";
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FutureofRetail0912[i-1].body = "
We’re already seeing $1,000 strollers and other indications that for some of today’s parents, no expense should be spared in the name of fashion, safety and comfort.
Hali expects more and more U.S. retailers will invest in children’s wear in the coming years, reflecting a trend toward paying more attention to making junior stylish and hip as well as safe and happy. Already, she noted, some of that family branding is apparent in Europe.
“Demographically, it’s really the right business,” she said."; // END editorial data