A screen, an image, a click. Proceed to checkout. Sign for it the next day. We are the first generation to enjoy the thrill and convenience of online shopping. No queuing, no frustration at going home empty-handed, because we can always find what we’re looking for online – anywhere, anytime, on our laptop or smartphone.For centuries the high street has been the focus of local community, the place where people meet to trade and exchange news. But many high streets in the UK are struggling and some say that the online revolution is to blame.In October 2014, Intelligence Squared, in partnership with eBay, brought together a panel of experts to debate how the most forward-looking businesses are using technology to marry the best of online and bricks-and-mortar to meet ever-changing consumer expectations. Click-and-collect, location-based technology that sends special offers to your phone in store, augmented reality that shows you what a sofa would look like in your living room – these are just some examples of a new kind of retail experience which merges social, digital and physical shopping.Our panel included Bill Grimsey, author of The Grimsey Review into the High Street; Ben Hammersley, internet technologist, journalist, author and broadcaster; Simon Mottram, founder of cycling and sportswear brand Rapha; and Paul Todd, Vice President of eBay Marketplaces in Europe.The event was chaired by Jemima Kiss, Head of Technology at the Guardian.