At-home beverage receives a multi-functional overhaul
Implications - Multi-functional, smart appliances offer people the chance to not only make, but also customize, products they would normally purchase outside of the home. These devices ultimately offer a high-tech method of production that allows consumers to feel in control of the creation of their own goods, and also speaks to customization in the digital age.
Workshop Question - Is there a new product or service your brand can offer that allows consumers to create a customizable commodity?
Trend Themes
1. Smart, Multi-functional Appliances - The rise of smart, multi-functional appliances offers consumers the chance to create and customize products outside of the home with a high-tech method of production that promotes personal control and customization.
2. Simplified and Custom Beverage-making - Beverage-making tools that are simple and allow for personalization through fixed ratios or customization tools, such as coffee brewers, cocktail makers, and custom barrique wine bottles, have become popular as consumers seek to recreate coffeehouse and bar experiences at home.
3. Efficiency and Portability - Efficient and portable devices like single-serve coffee brewers, handheld soda makers, and compact espresso machines are on trend as more consumers opt for smaller appliances that can be easily stored and taken on-the-go.
Industry Implications
1. Home Appliance - Home appliance manufacturers can leverage the smart appliance trend to develop simple, multi-functional devices that empower consumers to create and customize products outside of commercial settings.
2. Hospitality - Hospitality establishments can utilize beverage-making innovations to create customized and unique beverage experiences for their customers, and expand into retail or franchise operations that promote take-home versions of their drinks.
3. Food and Beverage - Food and beverage businesses can incorporate portable and efficient beverage-making devices into their operations, as well as tap into the desire for simplified and customizable drinks to create and market unique beverage products.
