eCommerce Market Update February 21st 2025

by Alice Cummings

Topic of the Week - Amazon Tests Expanded Search Feature

Amazon is piloting a new search feature that allows customers to discover products not sold on the platform, directing them to the brand's website instead. This beta feature, currently available to a limited number of US customers, aims to improve the customer experience by providing a wider range of options.

The feature, available in the Amazon Shopping app, shows select products not sold on Amazon with links to the brand's website. If Amazon doesn't sell the item, it notifies users and redirects them to the brand's website. The company plans to test the feature with more US customers and brands based on customer feedback. This move is part of Amazon's efforts to improve the customer experience and increase the chances of shoppers finding what they need.

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in product search is becoming increasingly popular, with companies like Google, Wayfair, ThredUp, and Walmart using tools like AI imagery, personalised homepages, product curation, and chatbots to enhance their product discovery experience. Amazon's focus on AI-powered search is part of its efforts to reach shoppers of all budgets and provide a wide selection of products. The company's recent updates to its search experience include the redesign of its customer service chatbot and the addition of five visual search features to its platform.

The expanded search feature could lead to increased sales for brands and a more personalised shopping experience for customers. The use of AI in product search is likely to become more widespread in the industry, as companies look to improve their product discovery experiences and stay competitive. Amazon's focus on AI-powered search and its efforts to improve the customer experience could lead to increased customer loyalty and retention.

Furthermore, this feature could also benefit Amazon's own business by increasing customer engagement and driving more traffic to its platform. As customers are redirected to brand websites, they may also be exposed to other products and services offered by Amazon, potentially leading to increased sales and revenue for the company.

Overall, the expanded search feature is a significant development in Amazon's efforts to improve the customer experience and stay competitive in the e-commerce space. As the company continues to test and refine this feature, it will be interesting to see how it impacts customer behaviour and drives business results for Amazon and its partners.

eCommerce Market Stats

See some statistics relating to this week’s topics in the eCommerce market below.

Online eCommerce stats

  • 60% of consumers say they are more likely to make a purchase from a brand that offers personalized experiences.
  • 45% of online shoppers abandon their shopping carts due to difficulty finding what they're looking for.
  • 40% of consumers say they are more likely to shop with a brand that offers a seamless shopping experience across devices.
  • 25% of consumers say they are more likely to make a purchase from a brand that offers a wide range of products.
  • 20% of online shoppers abandon their shopping carts due to lack of product information.


*Statistics sourced from Statista

That’s all for this week…

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