This year, the physical, in-store shopping experience won't change much. While the vaccine roll out should support more re-openings of businesses and events, social distancing, frictionless experiences and outdoor spaces will continue to be the trend for physical retailers this year.

"Changes we're already used to will remain including frictionless interactions like touchless payments, plexiglass, and curbside pickup.  We can also expect the physical store to continue to the outside with outdoor seating areas, fitness areas, and displays," David Greensfelder of Greensfelder Commercial Real Estate, tells GlobeSt.com, adding that consumers should expect the continued evolution of in-store technology designed to enhance the mobile experience such as encouraging customers to use mobile for product info, QR codes, price comparison, and frictionless checkout.

While some of these trends may prove to be temporary, the pandemic has catalyzed new trends in the in-store experience. Greensfelder says that store footprints will continue to evolve and retailers will continue to invest in alternative retail channels, including online, omni-channel and subscription-based services. "Look for new channels such as voice shopping, connected TV, messaging apps, new subscription models, and chatbots to enjoy wider adoption as they become more sophisticated and responsive," he says. "Also, look for a blurring of the physical and alternative channel as they are used to enhance overall consumer experience and satisfaction. Combinations of physical experience and technology such as AR to see how clothes look or how furniture fits in a room will become commonplace."