S Trend Briefing covering "7 Consumer Trends To Run With In 2014"

Growing numbers of consumers can no longer escape an awareness of the damage done by their consumption: to the planet, society, or themselves. But a mixture of indulgence, addiction and conditioning mean that most can’t substantially change their consumption habits. The result? A never-ending guilt spiral. Which creates exciting opportunities for brands that combine tackling this guilt spiral with consumers’ endless status seeking (still the driving force behind all consumer behavior). Indeed, GUILT-FREE STATUS will be the ultimate indulgence in 2014. Known by all. Visibly guilt-free. Warning: this trend is NOT about GUILTWASHING. Tesla Guilt-free status symbol goes global The Tesla Model S sedan luxury electric vehicle began shipping to Norway, Switzerland and the Netherlands in August 2013, with right hand drive models scheduled for March 2014. Nudie Old jeans become limited edition rugs Liberty United Firearm jewelry fights gun violence (BBMG, GlobeScan and SustainAbility, October 2013)

s Trend Briefing covering "10 Crucial Consumer Trends for 2013" 2013 will be the perfect storm of necessity and opportunity: some economies will do OK(-ish), others will be shaky, but whatever market or industry you're in, those who understand & cater to changing consumer needs, desires and expectations will forever have plenty of opportunity to profit. A remapped global economy, new technologies (or 'old' technologies applied in new ways), new business models... hey, what's not to like? Hence this overview of 10 crucial consumer trends (in random order) for you to run with in the next 12 months. Onwards and upwards: To date, the ‘big data’ discussion has focused on the value of customer data to businesses. In 2013 expect savvy shoppers to start reversing the flow, as consumers seek to own and make the most of their lifestyle data, and turn to brands that use this data to proactively offer customers help and advice on how to improve their behavior and/ or save money...