Executive Summary

Retail returns surged over the past three years, far outpacing the unprecedented growth in ecommerce sales. As retailers struggle for profitability amid ongoing economic uncertainty, they must manage the costs of returns without losing customers.

Key Question: How can retailers limit their ecommerce return costs while still meeting consumer expectations?

KEY STAT: Overall retail return rates will grow just 2.2% this year, following rapid growth during the height of the pandemic. But ecommerce returns will stay above pre-pandemic levels throughout our forecast period.