"Live" shopping is trending right now. For many young people, it may seem like a new thing. But it actually started in the US in 1982. The Home Shopping Network (HSN) started a cable channel to sell goods on live TV. Other shopping channels followed, and they still exist today. Hosts show clothing, home goods, jewelry, etc., in real time (not pre-recorded). Viewers can call in and buy whatever is being shown.
Now it's on the internet. Most major retail companies have set up live shopping channels on their websites. And smartphones mean you can tune in any time, anywhere. Social media sites are another platform for live shows. Stores are trying to recreate the in-person shopping experience with real-time chat and shopping "parties" with friends.
Live shopping is very popular in China, making up about 20% of the retail market. It hasn't caught on as much yet in the US and Europe. And some forecasters expect the trend to slow down even in China. So is it the next big thing in retail? Or just a fad that is already fading?
