Acceleration

Implications - Brands are offering automated tea-brewing devices that speed up the process of producing quality teas. Such items remove the ritualistic aspects of brewing and drinking tea, and cater to consumers who are more concerned with convenience, and consuming the beverage as a means to an end. [More]

Implications - Businesses are using their physical and digital retail spaces to empower small entrepreneurs, offering various platforms for them to both create and sell their products and services. Such interactive spaces benefit small business owners for their ability to foster collaboration, bringing down the costs associated with marketing and retail space ownership. [More]

Implications - Brands are offering virtual event planning platforms that allow for individuals and companies alike to simply access and organize the resources they require to plan events. Such platforms come as consumers look to more conveniently juggle all their responsibilities, while giving those within the event planning profession the ability to better streamline their processes. [More]

Implications - Moving beyond fitness and wellness retreats, the shift toward mindfulness is making its way into the process of getting from place to place as well. Taking off thanks to both the increased interest in mindfulness as a practice as well as the portability of products that help facilitate it, this shift is reflective of more integration of mindfulness and meditation into consumers' day-to-day lives. [More]

Implications - As consumers become more aware of and concerned with the origins of their food, a shift toward both more natural and plant-based foods has taken place. Though not previously widely available, meat alternatives that closely resemble meat have been gaining traction over the past few years and are now becoming widely available by way of fast food chains. Signifying an openness to more sustainable yet science-based food products, this shift could potentially popularize plant-based diets with an even wider audience. [More]

Implications - Tech brands that specialize in personal drone systems are incorporating gesture-control functions that allow consumers to operate their products unencumbered by hand-occupying tools. These products cater to consumers seeking seamless ways to integrate tech-related play into their lives. [More]

Implications - Brands are using the interactive and immersive nature of pop-ups to test out how consumers experience the products and services they offer, before rolling them out. This emerging method of conducting market research has the benefit of reaching large groups of people, and allows for brands to test their products in more authentic environments. [More]

Implications - Known for its high water content, watermelon extract is the latest wonder ingredient to crossover from the realm of food and beverage into skincare. In addition to its ultra-hydrating power, watermelon extract boasts anti-inflammatory and anti-aging qualities. This progression highlights the interest in lightweight beauty products with natural origins that target a wider variety of issues. [More]

Implications - Brands are aiming to create all-encompassing fitness spaces by incorporating programs designed to boost mental health. Creating fitness studios and programs centered around this area of expertise caters to a niche consumer base concerned with enhanced customization when it comes to their health and wellness. [More]

Implications - Responding to the heightened expectations consumers have today, emerging brands in the undergarment space are designing and popularizing underwear products that serve a secondary purpose. Whether doubling as menstrual protection or incontinence, the highly functional and innovative designs of these products are moving the fashion space forward. [More]