Trend cluster
Category

Integrated
Social

Services and retailers turn to social media platforms as unique business models.

Snapchat-Only Ad AgenciesPhoto-Based Retail PlatformsImmediate Shopping AppsSocial Media eCommerce ServicesBlogger Payment Platforms

Trend

What is the Integrated Social trend?

Integrated Social: As social media becomes increasingly ingrained into consumer lifestyles, businesses are taking that into account by creating social media-specific platforms and services. Creating payment platforms and business models that are built upon platforms like Snapchat, brands are seeking to not only use social media and online influencers as a marketing tool, but rather integrate this type of digital engagement into the very core of their business.

Trend themes

Themes within the Integrated Social trend

Three behaviours holding the trend together
01

Social Media-Specific Business Models

Businesses are integrating social media engagement into the core of their business models to appeal to consumers' growing preference for online shopping and connection.

02

Influencer Marketing

Brands are partnering with social media influencers to create more humanized and niche shopping experiences and generate buzz around their products.

03

Instant Gratification Shopping

Apps and features that allow users to shop directly from their social media feeds and claim in-store rewards via QR codes are satisfying consumers' need for instant gratification and convenience.

Industry implications

What the Integrated Social trend means for industry

Where the trend changes the playbook
For

Retail

Innovative social media-specific business models and influencer marketing are changing the face of traditional retail.

For

Marketing and Advertising

Snapchat-only ad agencies and the rise of influencer marketing are disrupting traditional advertising methods.

For

Technology

Apps that facilitate instant gratification shopping and QR code reward systems are driving innovation in the technology industry.

Workshop question

What social media platform would your brand work best on to launch a new arm of your business? Consider content creators, a marketing campaign, shopping apps etc.

Trend signals

Trend signals for Integrated Social

Trend score 4.5 out of 10, from popularity 73%, activity 53%, freshness 8%.

Popularity73%
Activity53%
Freshness8%
Audience
50%Men
50%Women
  • Gen Alpha
  • Gen Z
  • Millennial
  • Gen X (not a primary audience)
  • Boomer (not a primary audience)
Market
North America
Europe
Asia-Pacific

Evidence

Examples of the Integrated Social trend

6 featured examples from Jul 31, 2015 to May 4, 2017