10 Retail Trends That Quietly Disappeared With Time
Retail has gone through major changes, and many once-common trends have faded away without much notice.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 3 min read
Retail businesses have constantly adjusted to changes in technology, culture, and customer habits. Some trends that once seemed permanent slowly disappeared as shopping moved online and priorities shifted. Looking back reveals how retail used to work, and how much it has changed.
1. Layaway plans in every store
Laura Kreider on Wikimedia Commons
Layaway lets shoppers reserve and pay for items over time before taking them home. This was common before credit cards became widespread. Many stores eventually dropped layaway as credit became easier to access. Only a few retailers still offer it today.
2. In-store catalogs and order desks
Ksenia Chernaya on Pexels
Major department stores once had catalog counters where customers could browse thick books and place orders. Staff would help customers write down item codes and complete the purchase. This service started fading when home delivery and online ordering became easier. Eventually, the catalogs themselves disappeared.
3. Uniformed store greeters
freddthompson on Wikimedia Commons
For years, greeters stood in front of many big-box stores to welcome customers. They helped with carts, directions, or simply offered a friendly hello. Many chains quietly removed this role to cut costs. Today, it’s mostly gone except in select locations.
4. Manual credit card machines
Wolfmann on Wikimedia Commons
Before digital swipes, stores used metal credit card imprinters to take payments. Clerks placed the card in the machine and slid a handle across to record the information. Receipts had to be signed and later processed by hand. These machines were phased out as digital terminals became the standard.
5. Department store charge cards
A.Savin on Wikimedia Commons
Many stores offered their own credit cards with paper bills and in-store payment options. These were popular before bank-issued cards became more common. Over time, these cards lost popularity unless paired with loyalty programs. Most now work through large banks or have been retired completely.
6. Salespeople behind glass counters
Antoni Shkraba Studio on Pexels
Shoppers once needed help to access items like jewelry, cosmetics, or electronics. Salespeople stood behind counters and explained each product. Over time, many stores shifted to self-service displays to reduce staff costs. Only high-value items are still locked away.
7. Free gift wrapping stations
Michael Rivera on Wikimedia Commons
During the holidays or special events, stores offered complimentary gift wrapping. Wrapping counters were staffed with ribbons, paper, and tags. As budgets tightened, many stores dropped this service or began charging for it. Shoppers now often wrap gifts themselves.
8. S&H Green Stamps and loyalty books
frankieleon on Wikimedia Commons
Customers once collected stamps with purchases and saved them in booklets to redeem for products. This early form of loyalty rewards faded as newer digital programs took over. Stamp programs became too expensive to run and easy to forget, and today’s points apps have replaced them almost entirely.
9. In-store music from live DJs or organists
Alex Cheek on Wikimedia Commons
Some large department stores had live musicians or DJs playing music during business hours. It created a pleasant shopping atmosphere and attracted visitors. Eventually, recorded music replaced live performances to save money. Today, most stores use licensed playlists or none at all.
10. Full-service shoe fitting
DOAI MOGHA0 Hoo on Wikimedia Commons
Shoe sales once included full service: measuring feet, bringing boxes, and checking the fit. Salespeople knew brands and gave advice. As self-service became popular, many stores cut back on staffing. Most people now try on shoes themselves with little or no help.