armani glass

Holiday Display Trends for 2025

armani glass

What to Expect This Festive Season

As the holiday season approaches, brands and retailers are gearing up to create displays that captivate, inspire, and, most importantly, stand out. Each year, new trends emerge that shape how businesses approach their holiday decor and visual marketing strategies. For 2025, it’s all about blending innovation with  heartwarming nostalgia, pushing the boundaries of what a holiday display can be.

Here are the top trends you can expect to see lighting up the retail world this year:

Christmas themed window display

1. Minimalism with a Sprinkle of Magic: Less is More

While the holidays are often associated with lavish, over-the-top decorations, the trend for 2025 is steering toward minimalism. Sleek, clean lines paired with strategic pops of colour will dominate retail displays this coming holiday. Imagine window displays where a few carefully placed, elegant elements create a sense of wonder. The goal here isn’t to overwhelm but to captivate with simplicity. Think eye-catching displays that say “we’ve got style,” not “we’ve got everything.”

2. Let There Be Light! Immersive Lighting That Transports You

to a Winter Wonderland

Lighting will continue to play a major role in holiday displays, but in 2025, it’s all about immersion. Expect more brands to use interactive, dynamic lighting to evoke a magical winter atmosphere. Think twinkling LEDs that mimic snowfall or colour-changing lightboxes that create shifting moods—from a cozy hearth to a frosty winter night. shomi!’s iMPAKT-in-Motion lightboxes are perfect for brands looking to add that extra layer of immersion to their displays. By using programmable lighting effects, you can create a dynamic experience that draws customers in and keeps them engaged.

3. Eco-Friendly Displays That Don’t Skimp on Style

Let’s face it—customers are more eco-conscious than ever, and 2025 is all about decking the halls without decking the planet. From recycled materials to reusable displays, sustainability is where it’s at this holiday season. The good news? Being green doesn’t mean sacrificing style. At shomi!, we offer sustainable display solutions, from reusable SEG fabric banners to energy- efficient lightboxes. This trend allows your brand to be both festive and mindful of the environment—something today’s consumers are increasingly looking for.

4. Retro Holiday Vibes, with a Modern Twist

Nostalgia is in the air! This year, you’ll see plenty of retro-inspired displays—think vintage fonts, classic holiday colours, and old-school ornaments—but with a fresh, modern twist. It’s all about blending timeless holiday cheer with contemporary flair.

5. Personalized, Interactive Experiences

Personalization continues to be a driving force in consumer behaviour, and this holiday season, interactive and personalized displays will be a huge trend. Think augmented reality (AR) holiday experiences, customizable signage that allows shoppers to see their names or messages in lights, or touchpoints where customers can interact with the display.

6. Cozy Comfort: Because Everyone Wants to Feel at Home for  the Holidays

Holidays are about comfort and joy, and this year, displays are leaning into that cozy vibe. Think warm lighting, soft textures, and displays that make you feel like you’ve just stepped into a cabin by the fire. This trend is all about creating a welcoming space that wraps customers in a hug (metaphorically, of course).

7. Futuristic Festivities: High-Tech Holiday Displays on the Rise

While cozy is one direction, some brands are looking to the future with high-tech elements like digital screens and 3D-like effects that draw in a younger crowd. Although fully interactive holograms and 3D projections are still a bit further off from mainstream retail, brands experimenting with cutting-edge tech are gaining attention.

8. Multi-Sensory Displays: Beyond Visuals

In 2025, holiday displays will go beyond just visuals—brands will be looking to  engage multiple senses. This includes everything from the scent of pine and  cinnamon incorporated into the display space to soft, festive background music that enhances the ambiance. These multi-sensory elements will work together to create a complete holiday experience that lingers in the minds of customers.

As the 2025 holiday season approaches, staying ahead of these display trends will not only help your brand to embrace the holiday spirit but also create innovative, memorable experiences that resonate long after the season ends. Whether you’re looking for sustainable solutions, immersive lighting, or interactive displays, shomi! has the tools and expertise to bring your vision to life. Let’s work together to create a holiday display that  captivates and delights your customers.

People standing in large room wit immersive screens in background

7 Immersive Experiences in Toronto This Summer

People standing in large room wit immersive screens in background

Discover the Best Immersive Displays in Toronto This Summer

Welcome to our guide on the top immersive displays in Toronto this summer! Whether you’re looking to dive into whimsical worlds, explore cutting-edge virtual reality, or marvel at art and technology, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our comprehensive guide to some of the best immersive experiences you can enjoy this August.

BubblePlanet girl with VR set on

Bubble Planet

  • Location: 123 Garratt Blvd, Toronto
  • Dates: Available throughout August
  • Description: Dive into the whimsical world of Bubble Planet, an immersive experience featuring 11 bubble-themed rooms, each designed to engage all five senses. Highlights include a hot air balloon simulator, an oversized ball pit with giant rubber duckies, and interactive soap bubble displays. Perfect for all ages, this attraction encourages visitors to channel their inner child and let their imaginations soar.
  • Website: Bubble Planet

IlluminariumIlluminarium Toronto huge Lightbright visual of an eye

  • Location: 164 Bathurst St, Toronto
  • Dates: Throughout August
  • Description: Visit Illuminarium Toronto for a double feature of cinematic immersive shows. Explore “Lite-Brite: Worlds of Wonder,” a gamified experience with thousands of interactive lights, and “SPACE: A Journey to the Moon and Beyond,” which takes you on a galactic adventure through the solar system.
  • Website: Illuminarium

Musicians surrounded by candles Candlelight Concerts

  • Location: Various venues including Metropolitan Community Church and Paradise Theater
  • Dates: Various dates throughout August
  • Description: Enjoy the Candlelight series, featuring intimate performances of favorite anime themes and Hans Zimmer’s iconic movie scores. These concerts are held at venues surrounded by hundreds of flameless candles for a magical atmosphere.
  • Website: Candlelight Concerts

The Art of BanksyExhibition of Bansky Art

  • Location: Lighthouse ArtSpace, Toronto
  • Dates: Until September 2, 2024
  • Description: Explore the world’s largest collection of privately-owned Banksy pieces. This exhibit features over 100 original works by the elusive street artist.
  • Website: The Art of Banksy

 

The Formula 1 Exhibition

Formula 1 Immersive Experience

  • Location: Lighthouse ArtSpace, Toronto
  • Dates: Throughout August
  • Description: The all-new Formula 1® Exhibition combines spectacular immersive and interactive audio-visual design, never-before-seen films, exhibits, iconic artifacts, and features racing simulators and F1® cars from different eras.
  • Website: The Formula 1 Exhibition

Sandbox VR Toronto

  • Location: 261 King St W, Toronto
  • Dates: Ongoing
  • Description: Sandbox is a futuristic VR experience for groups of up to 6 where you can see and physically interact with everyone inside, just like the real world. Inspired by Star Trek’s Holodeck, our exclusive worlds let you feel like you’re living inside a game or movie.
  • Website: Sandbox VR

Museum of Illusions Toronto

Museum of Illusions Toronto

  • Location: 132 Front Street East, Toronto, ON M5A-1E2
  • Dates: Ongoing
  • Description: The Museum of Illusions Toronto offers a one-of-a-kind edutainment destination where you can immerse yourself in the wonderful world of illusions. Guests will enjoy more than 70 visual and educational exhibits featuring holograms, stereograms, optical illusions, and immersive rooms.
  • Website: Museum of Illusions Toronto

Arcadia Earth

Arcadia Earth Toronto

  • Location: 486 Front St W building C
  • Dates: Ongoing
  • Description: Arcadia Earth is a multi-sensory journey that combines creative art installations and exciting technology to inspire visitors to take action towards a more sustainable future. This immersive experience showcases the beauty of our planet and the impact of human actions on the environment. The goal is to inspire visitors to be part of the solution for creating a better world.
  • Website: Arcadia Earth

Whether you’re looking to marvel at stunning visual displays, engage in interactive digital art, or experience the future of virtual reality, Toronto’s immersive attractions offer a unique and exciting way to explore the city. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable experience

multiethnic group of teenagers holding tiktok, facebook, youtube, snapchat and instagram signs over their faces

Gen Z: The Trailblazers of Retail’s Evolution

multiethnic group of teenagers holding tiktok, facebook, youtube, snapchat and instagram signs over their faces

Gen Z: Redefining
the Future of Retail - Part 1

In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, one generation stands out as a driving force of change: Generation Z. Born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z represents the cohort of digital natives who have grown up in an era of unprecedented technological innovation and social connectivity. As they come of age and flex their purchasing power, Gen Z is reshaping the retail landscape in profound ways, challenging traditional norms and demanding a new era of authenticity, inclusivity, and sustainability.

The Rise of Digital Natives

Unlike previous generations, who witnessed the dawn of the internet and social media as adults, Gen Z has never known a world without smartphones, social networks, and instant access to information. As a result, they are highly adept at navigating digital platforms and leveraging technology to inform their purchasing decisions. From researching products online to reading reviews and watching unboxing videos on YouTube, Gen Z approaches shopping with a level of digital fluency that is unparalleled.

The Power of Purpose-Driven Brands

But it’s not just about convenience and accessibility – Gen Z is also deeply invested in the values and mission behind the brands they support. In an era marked by social and environmental upheaval, Gen Z consumers are seeking out brands that align with their values and demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. They are quick to call out brands that engage in performative activism or greenwashing and are instead drawn to companies that are transparent, authentic, and actively engaged in making a positive impact on the world.

The Influence of Social Media

Social media plays a central role in shaping Gen Z’s shopping habits and preferences. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X (formally known as Twitter) and Snapchat serve as virtual marketplaces where Gen Z consumers can discover new brands, engage with influencers, and share their own shopping experiences with peers. The rise of influencer marketing has further fueled this trend, with Gen Z turning to trusted creators for product recommendations and inspiration.

The Demand for Diversity and Inclusivity

In addition to social and environmental concerns, Gen Z is also driving conversations around diversity and inclusivity in the retail space. They are pushing for greater representation and visibility of marginalized communities in advertising, marketing campaigns, and product offerings. Brands that embrace diversity and celebrate individuality are resonating with Gen Z consumers, who crave authenticity and reject one-size-fits-all approaches to marketing.

The Future of Retail: Adapting to Gen Z

As Gen Z continues to assert its influence on the retail landscape, brands must adapt to meet the evolving needs and expectations of this discerning generation. This means embracing digital innovation, prioritizing social and environmental responsibility, fostering authentic connections with consumers, and championing diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of their business. By listening to the voices of Gen Z and embracing their values, brands can position themselves for success in an increasingly competitive marketplace – and pave the way for a more sustainable, inclusive, and socially conscious future of retail.

Don’t miss Part 2 of our blog series, where we’ll dive into the best marketing strategies to captivate and engage Generation Z. Stay tuned for insights that can transform your approach and drive success!

photo of mom holding up child to see colourful displays

What is Retailtainment?

photo of mom holding up child to see colourful displays

In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, there’s a transformative concept making waves – Retailtainment. It’s where the excitement of entertainment meets the practicality of retail, reshaping the way businesses connect and interact with their valued customers.

What is it?

Retailtainment is not just about transactions; it’s about creating immersive, enjoyable experiences that transcend the traditional shopping journey. Picture in-store events, interactive displays, and virtual experiences that captivate and delight your audience.

Why Should Retailtainment Matter to You?

Immersive Engagement: Transport your customers from the ordinary to the extraordinary by creating emotional connections to your brand during their shopping journey. Example: Arcadia Earth offers a captivating, immersive retailtainment journey, seamlessly blending art and technology to showcase Earth’s beauty and illustrate the impact of human actions. This experience not only inspires but actively involves visitors in the quest for a sustainable future, making each participant integral to creating a better world. Read about how shomi helped bring this exhibit to life

Unforgettable Brand Encounters: Stand out by offering unique brand encounters that leave a lasting impression. Example: Denmark’s LEGO House in Billund, Denmark offers an immersive experience, with interactive play, themed zones, and opportunities for creating your own LEGO masterpieces. It’s a unique and memorable brand encounter that goes beyond selling LEGO sets to creating a vibrant world of creativity

Enhanced Customer Loyalty: Foster loyalty by providing enjoyable and memorable experiences. Example: Glossier’s In-Store Experiences. Glossier designs its retail spaces to be more than just places to purchase products. In their flagship stores, customers encounter unique and Instagrammable spaces, including interactive installations and themed rooms. This ensures that the brand leaves a lasting impression by offering an experiential and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Differentiation in the Market: Differentiate yourself by offering more than just products – provide an all-encompassing experience. Example: REI’s Outdoor Experiences. Outdoor retailer REI differentiates itself by offering outdoor experiences to its customers. This includes organizing guided hiking trips, outdoor classes, and workshops. By providing an all-encompassing experience that extends beyond selling outdoor gear, REI positions itself as a brand deeply connected to the outdoor lifestyle.

Adaptation to Changing Expectations: Align with changing consumer expectations for meaningful connections with the brands they choose. Example: Zara’s RFID Technology Implementation. Zara, a global fashion retailer, has implemented RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology in its stores to adapt to changing customer expectations. Every garment has an RFID tag for quick product info, size, and style check via in-store touchscreens or mobile devices. This tech integration boosts shopping by offering instant info, and meeting the demands of tech-savvy, convenience-loving consumers.

Craft an Unforgettable Experiences by Embracing Retailtainment Today!

To thrive in today’s competitive retail landscape, consider integrating Retailtainment into your strategy. Explore innovative ways to captivate your audience, from in-store events to interactive displays. Remember, it’s not just about what you sell; it’s about the experiences you create.

If you need ideas on where to get started with Retailtainment for your business, give us a call at 1-866-667-4664 or get in touch here.