Consumer Insights > Pop Culture

Implications - Computer-generated social media influencers are on the rise, and so now are their collaborations with big brands due to their enormous popularity online. These virtual models are put together with the popular aesthetics that can be observed on platforms like Instagram, and are unique in their ability to reach millions of young consumers while retaining an air of mystique and intrigue.

Homework Question - Conceptualize a campaign for younger consumers that would leverage the reach of a virtual influencer. [More]

Implications - Looking to seize the opportunity provided by their cultural status, NASA is branching out with a number of lifestyle partnerships that see the creation of coveted co-branded streetwear and sneakers. This progression highlights the youthful fascination with utilitarian brands and the new pattern of crossover collections between such institutions and cult style collectives.

Homework Question - What unexpected lifestyle experiences could be considered in order to expand on your brand's place in the cultural zeitgeist? [More]

Implications - The rise of social media has ushered in a strong Internet culture that resonates with many consumers. Knowledge of this culture has become a marker of belonging to the tribe of "Internet insiders," effectively positioning the ability to "get it" as a status symbol. As a response, museum exhibitions, apps, and even books are being released as a way to bring this Internet insider information to the mainstream. This alleviates the exclusivity factor while legitimizing the relevance of Internet culture.

Homework Question - What is one area your brand is an "insider" in, and how can you share your knowledge with customers? [More]

Implications - No longer just niche elements of pop culture fandom, cult movies and character references are making their way into mainstream categories like household goods and furnishings for consumer appeal. More than merely movie memorabilia, brands in categories like home décor are integrating design references from popular fantasy franchises as a means to not only connect with younger demographics, but also reinvent themselves in a way not typically associated with more high-end goods.

Homework Question - What elements of pop culture could you tap to reinvent yourselves in a way that younger consumers can better identify with? [More]

Implications - The use of cannabis in festivals has been common for decades, and legalization and decriminalization in North America has brought on the branded formalization of this substance's use in festival-like environments. This shift indicates brands' willingness to put their names behind cannabis and its related products as perceived consumer acceptance of the substance rises.

Homework Question - How could your brand push for more equal application of marijuana legalization? [More]

Implications - With digital platforms now being one of the preferred methods of meeting potential partners, the incorporation of virtual reality into dating is now rising in popularity. This habit comes as cultural shifts in urban environments lead to social interactions that are simultaneously hyperconnected, and physically isolated.

Homework Question - How could your brand employ VR in its products/services/campaigns? [More]

Implications - Social media platforms kept afloat by ad revenue are now creating direct-purchase functions, whether interactive or still in traditional picture or video forms. These functions create additional sources of revenue for the brands and the social media platforms themselves, while offering consumers simplified, convenience-minded methods of purchase.

Homework Question - How could your brand leverage direct-purchase options on popular social media platforms? [More]

Implications - As many consumers continue to pine for elements of simpler times from their formative years, QSRs have responded by releasing cereal-flavored milkshakes. This allows restaurants to leverage the instant brand recognition and clout associated with popular cereal brands while also engaging the added benefit of aligning consumers into tribes based on their preferred flavor, a feature most desirable to connection-seeking Millennials. While this might not enact an overwhelming sense of belonging, its small micro-connections like these that weave the fabric of socialization.

Homework Question - How does your brand enable your customers to feel more connected to the world around them? [More]

Implications - The ever-broadening platform streaming services have has resulted in these companies' willingness to raise awareness for various social, political and environmental causes in unique ways. Collaborating with charities and celebrities alike, these campaigns are able to engage consumers with these causes in a way that is seamless and suits their preferred daily routines.

Homework Question - How could your brand raise awareness for important causes in ways that are seamlessly integrated into its product/service? [More]

Implications - QSR brands are making nods to pop culture references by adapting their menu items to mimic cult tv shows and celebrity figures. From burgers adapted to reference popular cartoons to entire menus inspired by children's movies, these examples not only showcase a desire from brands to connect with consumer interests, but it also showcases a willingness to take risks by integrating very niche, specific references into brands' mass marketing channels.

Homework Question - In what ways could you adapt your product or service offerings to be more in line with your consumer's lifestyle and interests? [More]