Next generation of consumers, appliances

From WeChat word of mouth to virtual stores, this isn't your father's shopping experience

Wang Jing, a 32-year-old Shanghai housewife, had a long shopping list in her hands when she visited a home appliances fair in Shanghai in late March.

She was looking at water filters, air purifiers, small robotics to help wash floors and windows, a flat-screen TV and kitchen gadgets such as a toaster that also can brew coffee and cook bacon and ham.