Acceleration

Implications - As consumers pursue alternative treatment methods for common ailments, many are looking to cannabis in various formats as an all-natural solution. In addition to highlighting one particular effect of the wellness obsession, this progression speaks to the overall reevaluation of modern "norms" that is taking place in the era of legalization and amid turbulent political times. [More]

Implications - Though STEM toys are increasing in popularity, the act of learning something new, even during playtime, can be intimidating. Brands are alleviating the intimidation factor by creating safe spaces and events for STEM novices to experiment and learn as a community. This adds an element of companionship to a notoriously technical topic. [More]

Implications - Brands are emerging with discreet cannabis-infused beverages that emphasize convenient consumption in formats that consumers are already familiar with. This progression highlights the experience of products such as cannabis and coffee in being a blank canvas onto which more of-the-moment fads are projected. [More]

Implications - While IoT is generally seen throughout home appliances, smart technology is being integrated into home gardens as well, making it more intuitive for the connected consumer to grow their plants, even if they don’t have the greenest thumb. As consumers become reliant on their digital devices, they run the risk of getting out of touch with nature, which leads to the counter-trend of incorporating more natural elements within the home environment. [More]

Implications - The youth generation is more engaged with their devices than any generation before them. This creates concern among parents for their children's physical well being; as a response, toys that encourage physical play are integrating a monitoring component. The gamification component appeals to digital-age children, while tracking alleviates the concerns of parents. [More]

Implications - An under-discussed side effect of play is relaxation. This is boosting the adult desire for mindless enjoyment by way of small, tactical toys, while also boosting mindfulness components in toys targeted toward children. Stress is high in the digital age due to the frequency and volume of content consumption, making incremental relaxation more necessary than ever. [More]

Implications - The biggest challenge with teaching kids and adults how to become involved in the STEM practices is the potential tediousness of learning such a technical skill. Implementing a personified character into the process adds more human interest to the process. The strategy simultaneously boosts memorability of the toy or learning system, while making it more impactful. [More]

Implications - Skills like coding and engineering are more in-demand in the digital age. Parents are preparing their children for this through educational toys, but education on STEM practices is useful for those of all ages. Subscription kits that teach STEM open education up to all ages while also enabling streamlined learning. [More]

Implications - Second to owning a time machine to rewind the aging process, high-tech tools that promise to reverse fine lines and prevent future wrinkles are the answer for many consumers when it comes to sophisticated anti-aging they can use at home. As demand for instant gratification leaves creams and serums in the lurch, many consumers are turning to lasers and electronics that they can integrate into their skincare routines without having to undergo the pain of injectibles or surgery. This shift demonstrates a desire from consumers to take matters into their own hands when it comes to age reversal. [More]

Implications - Restaurant menus are catering to those interested in Instagram-friendly dining experiences by producing brightly colored, aesthetically pleasing dishes that lend themselves to image-based social sharing. This shift speaks to the interest in creating social media-friendly experiences that offer rare elements of joy and delight, while it also highlights the innate interest in curation as a means of having specific control over something tangible in a time of great cultural and social stress. [More]