Exciting Tet shopping combined with technology fun.

The market for Lunar New Year goods in the Year of the Horse is witnessing new developments as technology gradually permeates every detail of packaging and the way brands tell their stories during the peak shopping season.

A livestream session showcasing snack products with packaging that utilizes interactive technology between consumers and brands - Photo: HUU HANH

Beyond competing solely on price or product, many businesses are transforming the shopping experience, giving familiar items a new lease of life on online platforms.

Increase digital interaction

As soon as she opened the kimchi-flavored snack bag, Bao Nhi (Ho Chi Minh City) counted the stars inside, scanned the QR code, and sent the result to the "AI Fortune Teller." Just a few seconds later, her phone screen displayed the message: "12 stars = blessings coming in abundance, possibly money, a chance encounter, or a very clear date (...) Gentle reminder: don't doubt yourself, you're on the right path. Keep going, the universe will take care of the rest."

This is part of Orion Vietnam's "AI Prediction" campaign on its Tet snack platform, allowing users to scan a QR code, enter the result, and receive personalized New Year's greetings. The company reports that after more than a month since its launch, the platform has recorded over 63,000 scans and 26,000 interactions, with further increases expected as Tet approaches.

In the days leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year), many major brands are also stepping up the integration of technology into their promotional campaigns. Coca-Cola Vietnam is investing in digital platforms with creative and interactive online content, producing Tet TV commercials using AI as a catalyst to highlight traditional crafts, creating 3D imagery in short films, and refreshing the way they tell stories about the spring season.

Kido Group also increased its digital engagement through minigames, online content, and brand experiences on social media.

In the market, many Tet (Lunar New Year) goods are gradually moving away from traditional imagery, becoming products that offer enhanced experiences. This has led to a trend where AI technology, along with QR codes, smartphones, and social media, are becoming the "gateways" for Tet goods to enter the digital lives of consumers, especially young people.

Besides technology-based products, electronic technology products are also a popular choice for Tet gifts. According to observations at several electronics and technology retail chains, many types of products are currently being purchased in large quantities.

Examples include: smart robotic vacuum cleaners (such as Roborock or models with AI that detects dirt and avoids obstacles); air purifiers, massage devices with integrated AI that automatically adjusts modes; smart speakers or noise-canceling headphones supporting AI virtual assistants (Google Assistant, Siri...). These are all practical tech gifts that are leading the trend for Tet gifts in 2026 according to major retail chains.

Smart products are popular.

Speaking to Tuổi Trẻ newspaper , Mr. Vũ Hồng Quân, Deputy Director of Strategic Developmentat FPT Shop, said: "Consumers are increasingly prioritizing smart, energy-efficient products and devices that serve healthcare needs, especially in large cities." He believes that AI-integrated technology devices are becoming a prominent trend, attracting significant market attention, such as smartphones (Android and iPhone), gaming laptops, and the E-Power PC line.

"Notably, during the 2026 Lunar New Year, consumer trends also showed a clear shift towards health and convenience products, instead of traditional gift items like confectionery or alcoholic beverages," Mr. Quan observed.

Customers prioritize gifts that offer long-term, practical use for themselves and their families, such as blood pressure monitors, smartwatches, household appliances that reduce labor (dishwashers, robotic vacuum cleaners), or technology products for studying and working, such as AI laptops and the latest generation of smartphones.

Speaking to Tuoi Tre newspaper , Ms. Le Thuong, Deputy General Director of SOI.Pro, said that changes in consumer behavior are driving businesses to accelerate the application of digital technology and e-commerce in their communication and sales activities.

According to this survey, over 70% of surveyed users said they prioritize online platforms for daily activities, including shopping. A segment of young people choose "contactless" experiences, valuing privacy and convenience, driving the rapid growth of e-commerce thanks to its speed and flexibility.

"In light of this trend, businesses need to build a seamless customer experience journey from brand awareness to purchase and maintain loyalty through gamification, loyalty programs, or special offers on digital platforms to increase interaction," Ms. Thuong said.

The direct impact of business strategies during the Lunar New Year season.

According to Mr. Vu Hong Quan, the trend of applying technology directly impacts the business strategy and operations of enterprises during the peak Tet holiday season.

Many businesses view online channels as an independent pillar during peak season. In particular, promotional activities are intensified across both traditional and online channels, including livestreaming sales to increase reach to younger customers and those buying before Tet (Lunar New Year).

"It's clear that technology is becoming a pervasive element in how businesses prepare for the 2026 Lunar New Year season, as evidenced by activities such as digital interactive experiences, supply chain operations, and sales strategies... This reflects the increasingly clear trend of multi-channel shopping among consumers," Mr. Quan said.

Real-life experiences are still very important.

According to Ms. Le Thuong, despite the strong development of the digital environment, the physical experience remains a key factor that cannot be completely replaced. Businesses need to promote multi-channel models, leveraging e-commerce and the digital environment, but without neglecting their direct presence at points of sale, in order to strengthen trust and further enhance the customer experience journey.

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BONG MAI - DUC THIEN

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/soi-dong-mua-sam-tet-ket-hop-choi-cong-nghe-20260208080610178.htm