Exploring the Future: Ecommerce Predictions for 2026

As we get ready for another rollercoaster in 2026, ecommerce landscape is poised for continued transformation. In the last podcast of the year, James and Paul explore the trends and innovations that they think are set to define the industry.

Sponsored by Shopify, this episode offers an interesting analysis of what the future holds for ecommerce businesses.

Summary:

2025 has been a whirlwind, and as we look ahead, the question on everyone's mind is: what will 2026 bring? James and Paul put their necks on the block, predicting the future & focusing on key areas such as the evolution of the point of purchase, the expanding role of SEO and agentic commerce, and the strategic use of technology.

Key predictions:

Point of Purchase Evolution:

The traditional ecommerce website is still critical but where people buy is evolving. James predicts a shift towards instant checkouts and purchases made directly from ads, thanks to innovations from companies like PayPal and Stripe. This evolution is expected to increase the percentage of sales made outside traditional platforms.

SEO and agentic optimisation:

As AI continues to advance, the role of SEO is expanding. Paul highlights the need for businesses to adapt to new optimisation techniques that blend traditional SEO with agentic engine optimisation. This shift is expected to reignite the SEO industry, offering new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Tactical middleware:

The use of tactical middleware is set to become a game-changer for businesses. By leveraging third-party apps like Airtable and SuperBase, companies can solve specific challenges without the need for complex integrations. This approach simplifies development and reduces costs, making it an attractive option for many.

Inside Commerce's predictions for 2026 paint a picture of an industry in flux, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer behaviours. As businesses prepare for 2026, staying informed and adaptable will be key to success.