New Ventures

Implications - As health-conscious consumers veer away from the frozen food isles towards fresh produce, we’re seeing a surge in the desire to be educated on best uses for getting the most out of fresh fruits and vegetables. From solutions that educate shoppers on ripeness to innovations for keeping fruit fresher for longer, grocers are making fresh produce more accessible for everyday consumers, acknowledging spending trends towards investing in personal health as well as high quality products. [More]

Implications - With their penchant for self-taught skills and digital prowess, kids are savvier than ever, empowering them to take center stage at their own festivals and events where they can gain new knowledge and show off their creativity. Modern parents increasingly want their children to have an entrepreneurial mindset from a young age, resulting in a huge shift from play-focused family activities towards educational and empowering activities that encourage personal growth. [More]

Implications - While premium price points often convey a sense of status to consumers, in-the-know shoppers are being drawn towards no-nonsense brands that promote top-of-the-line quality at ultra-affordable pricing. Keeping packaging and extras to a minimum, brands are realizing the value of offering high quality products that compete with the biggest name brands while staying accessible to the masses, strengthening their reputation among consumers as being authentic and honest. [More]

Implications - Playing to their strength as a small business rather than trying to hide it, entrepreneurial startups are utilizing minimalist retro packaging designs. Through simplistic branding without any fuss, newer companies are sending an authentic-looking message that resonates particularly well with younger demographics who tend to mistrust bigger name brands. [More]

Implications - With data technology already playing a huge role in the fitness industry, we’re starting to see the integration of increasingly cutting-edge technologies that are predicating future health and wellness lifestyle trends. From complete connectivity to intelligent accessories, exercise equipment is evolving to be more motivating, more intuitive and deliver even more data tracking. The merging of technology with health and wellness is a natural next step in consumers curating a customized lifestyle regimen that suits their specific physiology. [More]

Implications - Looking to ease their way into the fitness craze, many consumers are looking for more accessible workout classes that promise physical benefits with a side of fun. Through niche exercises that are more interest-based, consumers -- from those that would never dream of entering a gym to those who find regular fitness classes too repetitive -- are finding a happy medium that suits their particular lifestyle and interests. [More]

Implications - Productivity guilt is slowly giving way to more intuitive relaxation methods that offer the freedom for consumers to be themselves and feel at home. With free time becoming an increasingly precious commodity and personal wellness gaining precedence in consumers' minds, modern consumers are faced with the consistent struggle of trying to make time to do what they love best – lounging. [More]

Implications - Already used to looking at their phones when they need to look something up, the next step for consumers is looking to their phones for help in real life situations, from styling advice to pet healthcare. On-demand services are gaining ground in the app world, allowing small businesses to connect with a vast network of consumers seeking their specific services, demonstrating the increasing amount of trust consumers have for the on-demand business model. [More]

Implications - For consumers who are either too busy or otherwise inconvenienced every time they need to run an errand, there are a multitude of on-demand apps sprouting up to fulfill these niche needs. Saving consumers time, energy and even worry about potentially forgetting something, instant deliveries and services mean consumers don’t have to run out on their lunch breaks to get their laundry done or make a special trip for gas or milk. In a culture where the phrase "there's an app for that" increasingly rings true, instant gratification and hyper-convenience reign supreme. [More]

Implications - Attaining the celebrity lifestyle is becoming easier than ever with on-demand apps that can conjure up personal yoga classes, yachts and other VIP experiences within moments. This instant gratification gives consumers a chance to realize their every whim without actually having the budget to own the items or have the services on call, democratizing the lifestyle of luxury. [More]