The Webwinkel Vakdagen! The annual highlight of the e-commerce world, where, under fluorescent lights and with a lukewarm cup of coffee in hand, you get to listen to keynote speakers who say “disruption” as if they own stock in it. And now the question everyone is whispering as they stand in line for a free canvas goodie bag arises: Will this sacred gathering soon be blown away by AI as well?
What does AI mean for e-commerce trade shows like the Webwinkel Vakdagen?
AI is everywhere now. It inserts itself uninvited into every conversation, every presentation, and every marketing plan. While the average online store owner is still worrying about page load times and the right discount percentage, AI is coming on the scene with promises of smart personalization, automated customer service, and marketing on autopilot. It sounds exciting and/or scary.
And so expectations were high: booths with talking algorithms, chatbots that scan your badge and know your life story, and panel discussions in which experts explain how AI isn’t taking over our jobs, but is actually doing them just a little better. But what did we find? The human touch is still very much alive.
Why Face-to-Face Interaction at the Webwinkel Vakdagen Is More Important Than Ever
Instead of the expected “digital-first” approach, it became clear during the Webwinkel Vakdagen that visitors were mainly craving genuine personal contact, a good conversation, a handshake, and a cup of coffee. That’s where it all happens. That’s how doing business ultimately works: person to person. First, you make contact; then trust grows; and only then does the deal follow. It’s amazing how simple it really is, isn’t it?
How to Stay Human as an E-Commerce Professional in the Age of AI
AI makes work smarter and faster, but the Webwinkel Vakdagen have shown that technology doesn’t replace the human element. We at Misterchat—along with many others—enjoyed the connections and the energy on the show floor. It was busier and livelier than ever, with thought-provoking questions and genuine conversations. We’ll certainly continue to automate, but the core principle remains: people come first.
See you next year!