Talk to any entrepreneur who is in the retail sector and they will tell you that they are hoping for consumer confidence to return in the year ahead, whether online or in-store. But what are the global retail sector trend experts predicting for 2021, and what does it mean for all those women entrepreneurs who so badly need an uptick in sales this year? Well firstly, trend forecasters are seeing the demise of the over-represented global chain store on our city and town high streets and shopping malls. Instead, niche independent retail stores are forecast to be the enterprises that will grow in the year ahead as shoppers seek a different, safer, more individual shopping experience. Another retail trend forecast is that e-commerce will continue to grow, with independent online retail brands also getting a slice of the action. 2021 is likely to see these niche brands building bigger and more loyal customer bases by tapping into the desire for more personalized service offerings. It’s all about creating retail experiences that respond to what consumers need and feel comfortable with. So how is your business responding to such needs this year?

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