Customization

Implications - As selfies continue to reign supreme on social channels, having a phone case that is equally on brand has become important for consumers conscious about their online image. While creative cases are nothing new, an increasing emergence of personalized cases ensures that consumers can send a message and get their unique identity across with an item that is special to them and their self-image. Already carefully curating their social feeds, customizing details such as their cell phone case that is sure to show up in any mirror shot demonstrates the desire for a more sentimental approach to accessories and style. [More]

Implications - Modular furnishings have become a favorite as homes get smaller and the need for customization gains prominence. When it comes to raising kids in these homes, savvy parents are opting for pieces that accommodate the different stages of childhood. Designs that adapt to user’s changing needs are seen as investments that will last and grow with the family, indicating a desire for smarter purchases. [More]

Implications - Reformatting classic ingredients to appeal to a more modern landscape, traditional Italian food is being completely restyled in excitingly surprising ways. It can be tough to stay competitive in the minds of foodies while staying true to traditional roots and flavors. However, through taking familiar ingredients and presenting them as interactive elements to a dish or offering customization through modern technology, Italian food is seeing a revolution from comfort to excitement, much to the delight of flavor-seekers. [More]

Implications - As consumers look for experiences that balance authenticity and personalization, brands are moving to offer customizable food and beverage experiences that reimagine the ordering process. This progression highlights the need to incorporate unexpected, exciting elements to the retail experience in order to allow customers to feel in control of the process. [More]

Implications - Meeting the desire for both direct-to-consumer brand interactions and limited edition, personalized merchandise, brands are hosting pop-up experiences that invite customers to experiment in order to co-create custom products. This progression demonstrates the need to engage consumers with memorable brand touchpoints during a time when brand loyalty is at times difficult to garner. [More]

Implications - More empowered than ever to understand the complexity of their unique skin and beauty needs through online resources, self-educated consumers are driving demand for products that they can customize themselves rather than trying to fit a mold being dictated to them. Becoming less satisfied with off-the-shelf selections, mix-and-match kits that allow consumers to personally curate their own cosmetics are starting to gain ground, putting ultimate control of the product and, by extension, the product experience, in their hands. [More]

Implications - Modern lifestyle shifts mean a more adaptable approach in architectural design is needed in order to maximize the usage of a space. Shared spaces in particular are becoming increasingly relied upon to accommodate different work and leisure preferences so as to create a sense of inclusivity and acceptance. [More]

Implications - Voice-controlled technology begins permeating the home in surprisingly routine ways as consumers expect more from their everyday appliances and devices. As small items throughout the home are becoming outfitted with voice-activated features, homeowners are empowered with a sense of total control as well as the ultimate form of personalization as they can change almost any setting with a single word. [More]

Implications - Looking beyond subscription services and home delivery, consumers are taking advantage of in-store and boutique services that expedite the meal preparation process and provide an opportunity for hands-on guidance. This progression highlights the expanded expectations facing contemporary grocers, as well as the interest in educational services that allow customers to take knowledge of the skill home with them in addition to a finished product. [More]

Implications - As consumers look for ways to emphasize individual personality while sticking to staples capable of going from the office to an evening out, many are selecting designer denim jackets that offer unique customizable features or that boast limited edition status from cult brands. Highlighting one of the safer ways one can transform a conventional piece into an outfit-altering fashion statement, this progression underlines the continued influence of the DIY movement, as well as the connection between personalization and exclusivity in the mind of the consumer. [More]