How should cross-border sellers respond to the drastic changes in home consumption in the United States?

In recent years, the U.S. home furnishing consumer market has undergone a series of profound changes.

From the impact of the pandemic to supply chain fluctuations, and the rapid iteration of consumer behavior, the traditional home retail model is facing unprecedented challenges. As 2025 approaches, two core trends in this market are becoming increasingly clear: the dominance of hybrid channels and the deep application of high-tech tools. These changes are not only reshaping consumer shopping habits but also bringing new opportunities and challenges for cross-border sellers.

Image source: Internet

1. Hybrid Channels Dominate the Market, End-to-End Experience Becomes the Key to Competition

According to the latest research data from Provoke Insights and 3D Cloud, in the past six months, 45% of American consumers have chosen a combination of online and offline channels when purchasing home goods, while 24% prefer pure online shopping, and another 31% still favor physical store shopping.

This data clearly shows that hybrid shopping models have become mainstream. Consumers are no longer limited to a single shopping channel but instead flexibly choose online or offline methods based on their needs. For example, 46% of consumers browse retailer websites before visiting physical stores to obtain product information, compare prices, and even view virtual displays.

Image source: 3D Cloud

This shift in behavior places higher demands on retailers. As the research director pointed out, a "seamless digital experience" is key to retaining consumers.

However, the popularity of hybrid channels has also intensified market competition. Some traditional brands have fallen into difficulties due to their failure to transform in time. For example, The Container Store had to file for bankruptcy protection because it did not adjust its strategy in time to adapt to new consumer trends. This shows that omnichannel deployment is no longer an optional strategy but a necessity for survival.

Image source: retaildive

2. Technology Empowerment: 3D, AI, and AR Reshape the Shopping Experience

Research data shows that consumer demand for visualization tools is rising significantly. 75% of consumers say they want to use 3D visualization tools when selecting furniture, while 68% are more willing to choose retailers that offer such services and show stronger loyalty to these brands. These tools not only help consumers preview the effect of products in real spaces but also reduce return rates and improve decision-making efficiency.

In addition, the application of AR technology further blurs the boundaries between online and offline. For example, consumers can use their phone cameras to "place" a virtual sofa in their living room and intuitively feel the fit in terms of size and style. This technology not only enhances the shopping experience but also becomes a breakthrough for brand differentiation. Data shows that 90% of consumers are more willing to place orders after receiving effective information support, and technology tools are the core means of providing such support.

Image source: 3D Cloud

3. Situations Brands Going Global Should Pay Attention To

For brands planning to enter the U.S. home furnishing market, the following points require special attention:

Omnichannel deployment: The hybrid online-offline model has become mainstream. Brands need to optimize both online and offline channels to ensure consumers can seamlessly switch between different channels.

Digital experience: Consumers' reliance on digital experiences is increasing. Brands need to provide intuitive and easy-to-use digital tools, such as 3D visualization and AR technology, to enhance the shopping experience.

Responding to market challenges: The U.S. home furnishing market still faces many challenges, including supply chain issues and changes in consumer demand. Brands need to flexibly adjust strategies and respond to market changes through innovation and transformation.

Image source: Internet

4. Future Outlook: Innovation and Resilience Coexist

Despite many challenges, the U.S. home furnishing market is still full of potential. Smart home products, environmentally friendly products, and personalized customization will become growth engines. In addition, the emphasis on experience by Millennials and Generation Z is driving brands to shift from "selling products" to "selling lifestyles."

For cross-border sellers, only by combining technological innovation, omnichannel integration, and brand building can they stand out in the competition. As revealed by Amazon's supply chain services, the future winners will be those companies that "continue to adapt and innovate amid change."

(Note: All data and events in this article are based on public reports and research papers. Please refer to actual business needs for specific strategies.)