Trend cluster
Category

De-Sophistication

More high-end edibles in various industries get more low-brow makeovers.

Casual Foie Gras CansFloral Riesling Ice PopsColorful Gummy SangriasMango Wine MilkshakesFestive Vino Milkshakes

Trend

What is the De-Sophistication trend?

De-Sophistication: Food and drink choices are considered status items by many, however in today's hyper-public society, anything too ostentatious and opulent can be considered insensitive. As a result, high-end and low-end ideas are converging in the world of cuisine. This makes for an acceptable form of luxury that also opens sophisticated products to a bigger market.

Trend themes

Themes within the De-Sophistication trend

Three behaviours holding the trend together
01

De-Sophistication

High-end and low-end ideas are converging to create a form of acceptable luxury that opens sophisticated products to a bigger market.

02

Gourmet convenience

Consumers are seeking gourmet food experiences in more convenient forms, leading to the creation of frozen gourmet meals and packaging.

03

Boozy treats

Alcoholic milkshakes and wine-infused popsicles are becoming popular, creating opportunities for innovation in the dessert and beverage industry.

Industry implications

What the De-Sophistication trend means for industry

Where the trend changes the playbook
For

Food and beverage

The convergence of high-end and low-end ideas is creating opportunities for luxury products to reach a broader market, as well as a rise in gourmet convenience and boozy treats.

For

Packaging

There is an opportunity to create bold and relaxed packaging for gourmet foods that let the product speak for itself, while also creating packaging for convenient gourmet meals.

For

Hospitality

Creative cocktail recipes featuring unique ingredients like drunk gummy bears and edible flowers are becoming more popular, providing opportunities for creative libations in bars and restaurants.

Workshop question

In what ways can your brand maintain elements of sophistication and luxury without excluding certain consumer segments?

Trend signals

Trend signals for De-Sophistication

Trend score 2.3 out of 10, from popularity 31%, activity 29%, freshness 8%.

Popularity31%
Activity29%
Freshness8%
Audience
30%Men
70%Women
  • Gen Alpha (not a primary audience)
  • Gen Z
  • Millennial
  • Gen X
  • Boomer
Market
North America
Europe
Asia-Pacific

Evidence

Examples of the De-Sophistication trend

6 featured examples from Mar 20, 2014 to May 29, 2015
Casual Foie Gras Cans
CategoryLifestyle

Casual Foie Gras Cans

Uhmm's Gourmet Food Packaging Adopts Bold, Punchy Graphics & Text

Uhmm's innovative approach to foie gras packaging could disrupt the traditional high-end gourmet food industry by introducing a more accessible and approachable product to a wider…

Floral Riesling Ice Pops
CategoryLifestyle

Floral Riesling Ice Pops

These Refreshing Riesling Popsicles Are Made with Edible Flowers

Innovating in the beverage industry by incorporating edible flowers and creating low-calorie alcoholic drinks.

Colorful Gummy Sangrias
CategoryLifestyle

Colorful Gummy Sangrias

This Sweet Cinco de Mayo Cocktail Rescipe Uses Drunk Gummy Bear Candies

Opportunity for beverage companies to develop and market innovative ready-to-drink colorful cocktails that cater to consumers seeking visually appealing beverages.

Mango Wine Milkshakes
CategoryLifestyle

Mango Wine Milkshakes

Red Robin is Introducing a Wine Milkshake with Mango Moscato

The restaurant industry can get an opportunity to differentiate themselves by providing new food and beverage options (like Mango Wine Milkshakes) that appeal to adult consumers s…

Festive Vino Milkshakes
CategoryLifestyle

Festive Vino Milkshakes

Red Robin has a Red Wine Shake for Adults to Enjoy Over the Holidays

The food and beverage industry can capitalize on the trend of alcoholic milkshakes and holiday themed menu items for seasonal offerings.

Frozen Truffle Pastas
CategoryLifestyle

Frozen Truffle Pastas

Evol's Frozen Pasta Dinner Turns Mac & Cheese Gourmet

Frozen food companies can create and market gourmet frozen meals that appeal to a wider audience looking for convenience and affordable luxury.