Sydney, Aug 19 - Researchers have warned of a surge in online trading and 'anti-retail movement' that could doom retail outlets over the next 10 years.

Some traditional retailing is likely to become obsolete by 2020, as manufacturers choose to sell directly to the public and consumers prefer to deal directly with wholesalers.

Research by Australian Centre for Retail Studies of Monash University (MU) predicts that industries most likely to feel the crunch of this consumer-led change would include computers and gaming, entertainment and media, consumer electronics and beauty.

Businesses that offer experiential retailing such as furniture and household goods, clothing, recreation and outdoor supplies are likely to thrive.

Researchers Sean Sands and Carla Ferraro predict the shift in consumer buying habits, fuelled by the internet and online retail spaces such as eBay, means retailers will need to think outside the box and provide new ways to engage with their customers.