Akeneo's 'PX Pulse' Highlights Demand For Clearer Product Details
Edited by Debra John — January 19, 2026 — Business
This article was written with the assistance of AI.
References: retailcustomerexperience
Akeneo, a product experience software company, released a new 'PX Pulse' survey showing that shoppers now treat transparency as a baseline expectation rather than a bonus. The research focused on e-commerce behaviors and identified unclear product descriptions as the leading frustration pushing consumers away at the point of purchase. The study also found that unexpected checkout fees were a major deal-breaker, with a large majority of respondents willing to abandon their cart when surprised by extra costs.
Product photos emerged as the top decision driver, followed closely by user-generated reviews and real-time stock or availability information. Together, these assets help customers verify what they will receive, how it performs in real life, and whether it can arrive when needed. When any of these components are missing or misleading, shoppers become far more likely to hesitate or leave the experience altogether.
This transparency-first mindset reflects research-heavy purchasing, where the brands that win are those that remove friction, surface trustworthy details, and reduce uncertainty at every digital touchpoint.
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Stock-Asso
Product photos emerged as the top decision driver, followed closely by user-generated reviews and real-time stock or availability information. Together, these assets help customers verify what they will receive, how it performs in real life, and whether it can arrive when needed. When any of these components are missing or misleading, shoppers become far more likely to hesitate or leave the experience altogether.
This transparency-first mindset reflects research-heavy purchasing, where the brands that win are those that remove friction, surface trustworthy details, and reduce uncertainty at every digital touchpoint.
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Stock-Asso
Trend Themes
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Transparency-as-expectation — As consumers increasingly demand transparency in product information, businesses must prioritize clear and honest communication to align with buyer expectations.
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Frictionless E-commerce Experiences — Streamlined digital touchpoints that minimize consumer uncertainty are becoming pivotal for securing purchase commitments and customer retention.
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Visual and User-review Driven Decisions — A rise in the reliance on product imagery and peer reviews highlights the shift towards more visually and experientially validated buying experiences.
Industry Implications
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E-commerce Platforms — E-commerce companies have the opportunity to innovate by integrating transparent product details and real-time updates to cater to transparency-driven shoppers.
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Digital Marketing and Customer Engagement — Industries focused on digital marketing can capitalize on the trend by developing targeted strategies that emphasize authentic product visuals and user reviews.
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Consumer Electronics — The consumer electronics industry stands to benefit from investing in clear product narratives and transparent communication to address information-driven purchasing behaviors.
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