Remember when “anti-aging” was all the rage? Well, toss that outdated concept in the bin! We’re not just trying to stopthe clock anymore; we’re hacking it, upgrading it, and turning it into a finely-tuned, high-performance machine. Welcome to the era of the Longevity Craze! But don’t let the “craze” part fool you – this isn’t just a fad. 

This is a full-blown cultural revolution, a Longevity Wavethat’s reshaping industries and redefining how we approach life itself. 

/ longevity, a fundamental consumer evolution

Forget fleeting fads – this is a fundamental consumer evolution. People aren’t just passively accepting the aging process; they’re actively taking control, fuelled by a desire to live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. 

And brands? They’re catching on, big time. But the smart ones aren’t just slapping “anti-aging” labels on existing products; they’re fundamentally rethinking their strategies to harness this cultural shift and stay relevant in the age of extended life. They’re learning to navigate the longevity economy and build lasting brand success. Are you ready to ride the wave? 

So what’s driving this cultural revolution?

  • Demographic tsunami (we’re living longer): The global population is aging at an unprecedented rate. The WHO projects the population aged 60 and over to nearly double by 2050. This isn’t just a blip; it’s a demographic tsunami that’s reshaping societies and economies worldwide. 
  • The democratization of health data (we’re more health-conscious): We’re no longer reliant on doctors to tell us about our health. Wearable technology, genetic testing, and readily available health information are empowering individuals to take control of their own health data and make informed decisions. 
  • The rise of the “Pro-Aging” mindset (we’re empowered and it’s all about assuming): Forget “anti-aging.” The new mantra is “pro-aging.” It’s about embracing the aging process, celebrating wisdom and experience, and focusing on maintaining vitality and well-being at every stage of life. 
  • The longevity economy: This isn’t just about individual consumers; it’s about a burgeoning economic sector. Investors are pouring billions into longevity-related technologies and services, recognizing the immense potential of this market.
/ Brands are levelling up the longevity game (strategically!) 

The Longevity Craze isn’t just a consumer trend; it’s a massive untapped market. Brands are stepping up to meet the growing demand for products and services that support a longer, healthier life. But the most successful brands are taking a strategic approach, aligning their offerings with the underlying cultural shifts and unmet needs of the longevity market.  

It’s not just a consumer trend, and it’s also not just about science and technology. It’s also about creating experiences (and connection) that support a longer, healthier life. Think wellness-focused resorts, community-based fitness programs, and even age-fluid social events. It’s about fostering social connection, promoting mental well-being, and creating a sense of purpose and belonging. 

/ Brands are levelling up the longevity game (strategically!) 

The Longevity Craze isn’t just a consumer trend; it’s a massive untapped market. Brands are stepping up to meet the growing demand for products and services that support a longer, healthier life. But the most successful brands are taking a strategic approach, aligning their offerings with the underlying cultural shifts and unmet needs of the longevity market.  

It’s not just a consumer trend, and it’s also not just about science and technology. It’s also about creating experiences (and connection) that support a longer, healthier life. Think wellness-focused resorts, community-based fitness programs, and even age-fluid social events. It’s about fostering social connection, promoting mental well-being, and creating a sense of purpose and belonging. 

/ Decoding longevity: why you should step up your brand

Our latest Pulse 2025 report dives deep into this phenomenon, revealing how design is playing a crucial role in shaping the longevity landscape. It’s not just about wrinkle creams and retirement homes anymore (though, hey, those still have their place!). We’re talking about a holistic approach that touches everything from nutrition and fitness to technology, finance, and even social connection. We’re providing a strategic roadmap for brands to navigate this complex and rapidly evolving landscape. 

Credit: Oura

Want to really thrive in the longevity economy? Nail these principles: 

  • Redefine wealth: Forget material possessions. It’s all about health, time, and freedom. Brands across all sectors can find ways to resonate with this new mindset. Is your brand speaking to that? Singapore’s incentivizing families to live closer together – prioritizing relationships over riches is a great illustration this evolving understanding of longevity being closely tied to the idea that health is the new wealth.  
  • Ethical tech: Empower, don’t monitor. Use AI to help, not to snoop. Transparency is the new black. For instance, Oura and Ultrahuman are giving consumers the power to understand their bodies.  
  • Foster connections: Longevity isn’t a solo act. Build community, encourage belonging, and bridge generations. Running Groups, for example, have become a cultural phenomenon, building “good living clubs” where health, sociability and lifestyle converge. We can also talk about the Blue Zones Kitchen. They’re not just selling frozen meals; they’re selling access to a lifestyle. By tapping into the mystique and proven success of the Blue Zones, they’re offering consumers a tangible way to emulate the habits of the world’s longest-lived people. This speaks to the desire for proven solutions and a holistic approach to longevity. 
  • Longevity readiness: Are you trulyready for the 100-year life? Does your brand offer health, purpose, and joy? Longevity resorts such as Sensei Porcupine Creek and Six Senses Kaplankaya) are catering to the growing demand for immersive and transformative wellness experiences. By offering specialized programs aimed at enhancing longevity, they’re providing consumers with a luxurious and holistic approach to health and well-being. 
  • Offerings that grow : Design for a lifetime, not just a season. Can your product evolve with your customer from 30 to 80?
/ WELL-BEING AT THE EDGE OF TECH

CBA designed the retail space for Paris’s first biohacking studio, Octane, blending well-being and technology with innovative treatments to optimize long-term body performance. The result? A warm and relaxing space, with soft colors and natural materials.

More than just a fitness studio; Octane’s a brand that embodies a modern mindset, centered around self-awareness and realizing one’s potential.

Octane FR 2

The future is long (and strategically awesome!) 

The Longevity Craze is a fundamental shift in how we think about aging. By embracing a holistic approach that combines science, technology, and experience, and by taking a strategic approach to the longevity market, we can all level up our lives and live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. 

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to join the Longevity Craze and start designing a better future for yourself (and your brand!). 

 

Three strategic questions to ask yourself (and your brand). And we can help you to think about it! 

  • Are you positioning your brand as a key ally in the pursuit of longevity? 
  • Are you building a brand ecosystem that seamlessly connects the physical and digital worlds? 
  • Are you communicating longevity in a way that’s authentic and inspiring? 

 

This article is the third in a series inspired by the insights introduced in our Pulse 2025 report.  

Ready to ignite your brand's playful spark?

 Let’s get in touch for a complimentary brand assessment and discover how we can help you unlock your playful potential while achieving your core business objectives.  

Remember the last time you scrolled through TikTok and saw a brand collaboration so bizarre it made you laugh out loud? Maybe it was pickle-flavored soda, or a luxury fashion house selling Crocs encrusted with… something. Welcome to the era of the Playful Extravaganza, where brands are ditching the predictable and embracing the absurd to capture our fleeting attention.

But is this just fleeting fun, or is something deeper at play? 

/ From mundane to merriment: defining the Playful Extravaganza

In today’s attention economy, brands are battling for relevance. CBA’s Pulse 2025 report reveals a powerful truth: consumers crave brands that inject joy, humor, and a touch of the unexpected into their experiences.

This isn’t about frivolous antics; it’s about strategically harnessing the power of play to cultivate deeper relationships. 

So, what exactly is Playful Extravaganza? Forget fleeting trends. It’s a deliberate, strategic approach to brand building that prioritizes:

  • Unconventional creativity: Daring to defy industry norms and think outside the box. 

  • Emotional resonance: Tapping into positive emotions like joy and humor, while also evoking a sense of nostalgia. 

  • Authentic expression: Unveiling your brand’s unique personality and distinctive voice.

  • Experiential engagement: Crafting memorable and shareable moments that resonate with your audience. 

  • Disruption of the everyday: Offering a refreshing escape from the ordinary and predictable.

/ Decoding the crave: why play resonates in a dopamine-driven world

A “playful extravaganza” directly connects to this context: it’s not about instant gratification but about surprising with lightness. The concept of delight—unexpectedly enchanting—emerges as a response. Even brands committed to serious causes like environmental care and inclusivity are now challenged to communicate more authentically, accessibly, and humorously.

This movement isn’t confined to design; it reflects a broader cultural shift shaped by digital entertainment dynamics and the constant expectation of novelty. Generation Z—multicultural, fluid, and curious—naturally navigates between aesthetics, flavors, and categories. Open to the world, they seek the new with enthusiasm but have less patience for overly serious messages or predictable formats.

Credit: Duolingo 

But here’s the tension: this desire for playfulness is intertwined with the allure of instant gratification, fueled by the dopamine rush of social media likes and the constant stream of new experiences.

Are we, as brands, contributing to a culture of superficiality by constantly chasing novelty? 

Gen Z, the digital natives who have grown up in this dopamine-driven world, are particularly susceptible to this influence. They are constantly bombarded with new trends, flavors, and experiences, leading to a heightened expectation for surprise and difference. This explains the boom in unlikely flavor combinations, bizarre brand collaborations, and the meme-ification of everything. The rapid-fire humor and absurd content that dominate platforms like TikTok are shaping a new generation’s expectations for entertainment and engagement. 

  • Emotional connection & differentiation: Playfulness offers a unique way to cut through the clutter of marketing messages, creating a distinct brand identity that resonates with those weary of the predictable. Accenture reports that 66% of consumers gravitate towards brands that stand for something, emphasizing the need for a clear and compelling brand purpose. 
  • Engagement & humanization: Capturing attention in a world of endless distractions is a constant challenge. Playful experiences are inherently captivating, sparking interaction and creating shareable moments. Content infused with playful elements typically enjoys twice the engagement rates on social media (HubSpot), proving its power to drive meaningful interactions. Skepticism is on the rise, and playfulness can help brands appear more human, approachable, and relatable. Harvard Business Review reveals that consumers are 2.4x more likely to recommend a brand that delivers a positive emotional experience. 
  • Socio-economic context & dopamine culture: The pandemic led to a reassessment of priorities, with consumers now actively seeking brands that offer joy, escapism, and connection, especially in times of economic instability. Playfulness provides an emotional release and helps cope with stress. The constant barrage of information can be overwhelming. Playfulness offers a welcome respite, allowing consumers to focus on positive emotions. As social media becomes polarized, consumers crave authentic connection. Brands that offer community and belonging build stronger relationships.  

This tension requires careful consideration.

Brands must strive to create playful experiences that are not only engaging but also authentic, meaningful, and aligned with their core values. It’s about finding the balance between capturing attention and building lasting connections, understanding the needs of Gen Z while avoiding the pitfalls of feeding into a cycle of superficiality. 

/ Absurd? Unexpected? Surprise me!

The “Playful Extravaganzaisn’t just about surface-level fun; it’s about strategically weaving playfulness into every facet of the brand experience to achieve tangible business results.

Here’s how it translates to ROI, with examples in action: 

  • Enhanced customer loyalty: Customers who forge an emotional connection with a brand are more likely to remain loyal and make repeat purchases. Who Gives a Crap has revolutionized the toilet paper market with its fun, eco-friendly approach, including cheeky, humorous text about sustainability in each package, building brand loyalty and promoting ethical consumption in a lighthearted way. 
  • Amplified brand advocacy: Playful experiences encourage customers to share their positive encounters, fostering brand advocacy and organic word-of-mouth marketing. PepsiCo Design’s Cheetos Mansion perfectly captured the brand’s playful essence, generating significant social media buzz and fostering deeper brand engagement.
Credit: Pepsico
  • Elevated employee morale: A playful brand culture can attract and retain top talent, boosting employee morale and overall productivity. Ben & Jerry, for instance, consistently ranks high in employee satisfaction surveys. 

Beyond these core examples, we see playful strategies driving success across diverse industries. Consider Butt butter in New Zealand, where humor sparks conversation and captures attention, driving brand awareness and encouraging consumers to give it a try. Nutter Butter’s TikTok account amplifies their playful side and drives brand relevance, while Liquid Death uses aggressive marketing to create a strong brand identity and attract a loyal following. Duolingo, with its quirky owl mascot and playful gamification, demonstrates how to keep users engaged and motivated, driving app usage and promoting language learning in a fun and accessible way. La Vie challenges industry norms with its bold and humorous marketing of plant-based food alternatives, showcasing how playfulness can drive brand differentiation and capture the attention of environmentally conscious consumers. Even collaborations, like the McDonald’s x Cactus Plant Flea Market Happy Meal for adults, or the Nike x Ben & Jerry’s “Chunky Dunky” sneaker, demonstrate the power of surprise and nostalgia to drive sales and generate buzz. And who can forget Crocs x Balenciaga, with their outlandish and unexpected designs, demonstrating the power of surprise and humor to generate social media buzz and position brands as innovative and daring. 

Credit: GQ
jupdlc lavie campagne produit non disponible royaume uni 2
Credit: Buzzman
/ Navigating the minefield: avoiding the pitfalls of forced fun

The challenge for brands is clear: how to embrace fun without falling into the trap of superficiality? How to engage with different facets of the same audience—who, at times, seek purpose and depth, and at others, lightness and escapism? 

The answer may lie in moving beyond binary thinking and designing portfolios and experiences that accompany this natural alternation of moods. Between mindfulness and rave, there’s a vast territory to explore. And it’s in this vibrant and unpredictable space that playfulness proves more necessary than ever.

Authenticity is the cornerstone of success. Thus, is your brand ready to play? 

Consider these critical questions: 

  • Brand personality: Is your brand already perceived as approachable, friendly, or inherently innovative? Playfulness should complement your brand’s core values, not contradict them. 
  • Target audience: Does your target audience appreciate humor and unconventional approaches? Ensure that your playful initiatives resonate with your target audience and avoid alienating them. 
  • Competitive landscape: Are your competitors already embracing playfulness? If so, how can you differentiate yourself? 
  • Internal culture: Does your company culture foster creativity, experimentation, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected? 
  • Risk tolerance: Are you prepared to take calculated risks to capture attention and stand out from the crowd? 
  • Consistency: Cultivate a consistent level of playfulness across all your brand touchpoints, from your website to your customer service interactions. 

At CBA, we understand the transformative power of play. We empower brands to unlock their playful potential through: 

  • Strategic playful brand development: We collaborate with you to define your brand’s unique playful personality and identify opportunities to inject joy into your customer experiences. 
  • Captivating visual identity creation: Our design team crafts vibrant, memorable visual identities that capture the essence of your brand’s playfulness. 
  • Innovative packaging design: We transform everyday products into delightful experiences with innovative and engaging packaging designs. 
  • Compelling activation campaign development: We develop creative campaigns that capture attention, spark conversation, and drive measurable results. 

This article is the second in a series inspired by the insights introduced in our Pulse 2025 report.   

Ready to ignite your brand's playful spark?

 Let’s get in touch for a complimentary brand assessment and discover how we can help you unlock your playful potential while achieving your core business objectives.  

The over-the-counter (OTC) drug market is a saturated universe where brands wage a fierce battle for consumer attention. With the European market estimated at $48 million by 2027 (Mordor Intelligence), the question is no longer simply about existing, but about truly resonating with the needs, values, and aspirations of an increasingly demanding clientele.

Too often, OTC brands settle for ephemeral advertising campaigns or one-off promotions, sometimes neglecting the importance of a lasting brand foundation. However, a brand’s value results from a subtle alchemy between its identity and consumers’ perception of it. While investment in packaging remains a priority, it must be part of a comprehensive brand strategy that guarantees lasting and meaningful resonance. 

The OTC consumer: an informed player in search of meaning

Several factors contribute to the saturation of the OTC market: a plethora of offerings, pressure from private label brands and generics, the rise of e-commerce, and a strict regulatory framework. But beyond these challenges, a fundamental trend is emerging: consumers are increasingly taking their well-being into their own hands. 

Credit: 3S Santé

According to Le Quotidien du Pharmacien, self-medication is an increasingly ingrained reflex among younger generations. Faced with this evolution, OTC brands must rethink their approach and offer solutions that meet the specific needs of these new consumers.    

The OTC market faces a striking reality: 77% of consumers say they do not feel a genuine emotional connection with the OTC brands they use (Kantar, “Meaningful Brands” Study). That’s a huge pool of consumers whose attention can be captured and who are open to considering a new brand.  

Credit: 3S Santé

According to Le Quotidien du Pharmacien, self-medication is an increasingly ingrained reflex among younger generations. Faced with this evolution, OTC brands must rethink their approach and offer solutions that meet the specific needs of these new consumers.    

Credit: 3S Santé

According to Le Quotidien du Pharmacien, self-medication is an increasingly ingrained reflex among younger generations. Faced with this evolution, OTC brands must rethink their approach and offer solutions that meet the specific needs of these new consumers. 

The OTC market faces a striking reality: 77% of consumers say they do not feel a genuine emotional connection with the OTC brands they use (Source: Kantar, “Meaningful Brands” Study). That’s a huge pool of consumers whose attention can be captured and who are open to considering a new brand.   

This figure, to say the least, is alarming, revealing a growing gap between the aspirations of a clientele in search of meaning and the ability of brands to meet them. The key lies in relevant and clear positioning, tangible proof, and a deep understanding of consumer motivations. It is by creating this resonance between the public’s expectations and the brand’s DNA that branding can flourish fully and retain its audience in a highly competitive OTC market. 

Today’s OTC consumer is an informed player. They aspire to a relationship of trust with brands, complete transparency on ingredients and manufacturing processes, and a commitment to causes they care about. They are looking for brands that share their values and accompany them in their quest for well-being. According to a Xerfi study, 62% of French people say they pay attention to the composition of the medicines they buy and prefer products containing natural ingredients. 

This figure, to say the least, is alarming, revealing a growing gap between the aspirations of a clientele in search of meaning and the ability of brands to meet them. The key lies in relevant and clear positioning, tangible proof, and a deep understanding of consumer motivations. It is by creating this resonance between the public’s expectations and the brand’s DNA that branding can flourish fully and retain its audience in a highly competitive OTC market. 

Today’s OTC consumer is an informed player. They aspire to a relationship of trust with brands, complete transparency on ingredients and manufacturing processes, and a commitment to causes they care about. They are looking for brands that share their values and accompany them in their quest for well-being. According to a Xerfi study, 62% of French people say they pay attention to the composition of the medicines they buy and prefer products containing natural ingredients. 

The foundations of an OTC brand that Rrsonates: how to build lasting brand equity? 

To build an OTC brand that truly matters, branding and brand assets are key. 

  1. Uncover an unmet need: Understand consumers’ needs, expectations, and motivations to innovate and adjust strategies accordingly. 
  2. Define a positioning and brand identity that resonate: A unique and distinctive DNA, translated into a name, logo, graphic charter, and unique territory of expression. This identity must reflect the brand’s values, mission, and vision. 
  3. Ensure proof supports the promise, or build it: Commit to providing effective and quality products, relying on rigorous scientific evidence and complete transparency on ingredients and manufacturing processes. This promise must be credible, relevant, and differentiating. 
  4. Consistently activate all touchpoints and consider rituals that resonate with the brand: Create a smooth and personalized purchasing journey, offering impeccable customer service and cultivating a close relationship with consumers. This experience must be consistent, engaging, and emotionally positive, and deployed across all touchpoints:
  • Packaging: Packaging that seduces, informs, and reassures, while conveying the brand’s values. Packaging must also allow the brand to stand out on the shelf in the face of increasing competition. 

Credit: Upsa Gummies

Credit: Dijo

  • Retail and POS: A welcoming and immersive sales space that showcases products and facilitates the purchasing journey with clear and attractive signage that guides the consumer. 
  • Activation: Creative and engaging events and communication campaigns that evoke emotion and strengthen the bond with the brand, always in line with the brand’s fundamentals. 
  • Digital: A high-performing and interactive website and social media presence that offers comprehensive information and responsive customer service. 
  • Close relationship: Establish a permanent dialogue with consumers, using social networks and digital communication tools.  

The brand experience must be consistent across all touchpoints. 

The Resonance equation: promise + identity + experience = lasting Brand Value

Brand value is the result of this subtle alchemy between the brand’s identity, the promise it makes, and the experience it offers. This is what allows a brand to differentiate itself sustainably from its competitors, retain its customers, and withstand market turbulence. By investing in solid brand assets, OTC brands can protect themselves against market fluctuations and build a sustainable competitive advantage. According to the Observatoire de la Consommation Responsable, 78% of French consumers are willing to pay more for a medicine produced ethically and responsibly. 

Credit: Pharma365

The Pharma365 study reveals an enlightening observation: while many OTC brands manage to seduce consumers with their image, few succeed in aligning this perception with impeccable product quality. UPSA is an exception, demonstrating that it is possible to combine a strong brand identity, a kept promise, and a memorable customer experience. It is this consistency that allows it to stand out sustainably and retain its customers; and not to fall into the perception vs. reality gap. 

Credit: Pharma365

The Pharma365 study reveals an enlightening observation: while many OTC brands manage to seduce consumers with their image, few succeed in aligning this perception with impeccable product quality. UPSA is an exception, demonstrating that it is possible to combine a strong brand identity, a kept promise, and a memorable customer experience. It is this consistency that allows it to stand out sustainably and retain its customers; and not to fall into the perception vs. reality gap. 

Take the example of Dormi, a sleep product brand from Esteve laboratories. Faced with a saturated market of similar solutions, Dormi chose to differentiate itself by focusing on a soft and soothing visual identity, a reassuring message, and a personalized customer experience.

The packaging, designed with pastel colors and delicate illustrations, evokes a feeling of calm and comfort. The website offers personalized advice to improve sleep quality. And customer service is attentive and available to answer consumer questions.

As we have done for other OTC brands, this holistic approach by CBA has allowed Dormi to stand out sustainably and retain its customers, creating a real community around the brand. 

Take the example of Dormi, a sleep product brand from Esteve laboratories. Faced with a saturated market of similar solutions, Dormi chose to differentiate itself by focusing on a soft and soothing visual identity, a reassuring message, and a personalized customer experience.

The packaging, designed with pastel colors and delicate illustrations, evokes a feeling of calm and comfort. The website offers personalized advice to improve sleep quality. And customer service is attentive and available to answer consumer questions.

As we have done for other OTC brands, this holistic approach by CBA has allowed Dormi to stand out sustainably and retain its customers, creating a real community around the brand.  

The art of resonance: the importance of the WHY

In a context where 68% of consumers deplore the lack of clarity of OTC brands regarding their values (Global Monitor), it becomes imperative to define and communicate the “why” of your brand with authenticity. What is your raison d’être? What is your mission beyond simply marketing products? By answering these fundamental questions, you can forge a stronger emotional connection with your audience.

Thus, in a saturated and constantly evolving OTC market, the art of resonance has become a strategic imperative. It is no longer enough to sell a product; you must create a brand that matters, a brand that is permanently part of its customers’ daily lives. By focusing on creating solid brand equity with the construction of a strong identity, respecting its promise, and creating a memorable customer experience, OTC brands can transform perception into lasting value and thrive in the long term. It is by mastering this art that OTC brands will be able to differentiate themselves sustainably, retain their customers, and prosper in the long term. 

…and you will stand out from the competition in the long run. 

Ready to transform your OTC brand into a market leader? Let's talk!

Schedule a 30-minute session with our experts today to assess your brand equity, discover other success stories in the OTC sector, and identify the levers to activate for maximum and lasting resonance of your brand! 

Imagine scrolling endlessly through Instagram, yet simultaneously craving a moment of complete digital disconnection. This tension defines the On-Off Generation, and it’s reshaping consumer behavior.
Brainrot“, Oxford’s 2024 word of the year, perfectly captures the mental fatigue of our hyper-connected world.
But what if brands could tap into this desire for balance, offering moments of respite and authentic connection?

At CBA, we believe they can. We help brands understand and connect with this dynamic consumer mindset, crafting resonant messaging and experiences that capture the attention of this influential demographic. 

/ The Digital Detox and the Sober Curious: two sides of the same coin

The “digital detox” and “sober curious” movements might seem like separate trends, but they reveal a deeper cultural shift: the On-Off Generation’s pursuit of balance. This generation fluidly transitions between periods of intense engagement and mindful disconnection, presenting both a challenge and a significant opportunity for brands. 

Much has been said about the harmful impact of screens in our lives. Today’s consumers are overwhelmed by digital stimuli, spurring the “digital detox” movement. From screen-free challenges (like the French initiative involving over 60,000 students and parents) to the conscious embrace of analog experiences, people are seeking ways to disconnect. 

Capture decran 2025 03 12 a 16.52.33

Credit: News.com

This isn’t about rejecting technology; it’s about integrating intentional and conscious offline moments. This new balance manifests in different spheres in areas such as technology, travel, analog practices, and social life, all embracing more mindful, screen-free experiences.

Curiously, technology itself tries to offer solutions for its excessive use. Platforms like Instagram incorporate features like “Take a Break,” while other applications propose to block social networks on demand. However, there’s an evident paradox: isn’t it contradictory to resort to technology to solve problems that it created itself? 

In music, listening bars and vinyl revival emerge, spaces and formats that privilege active and contemplative listening – an experience distinct from casual consumption via Spotify or YouTube, but which coexists harmoniously with these. 

This presents a unique opportunity for brands to tap into the desire for tangible, authentic experiences. 
How can your brand offer a respite from the digital deluge? 

/ Beyond the screen: the rise of Conscious Consumption

This pursuit of balance extends beyond the digital realm. The “sober curious” movement, particularly prominent among Gen Z, reflects a search for more conscious socialization and questions the societal norms around alcohol consumption. Why is sobriety often stigmatized? This generation is challenging the pressure to drink to socialize, recognizing the potential harm of this ubiquitous drug. According to Euromonitor International, non-alcoholic beverage sales exceeded 6.5 billion liters globally in 2022. 

The phenomenon doesn’t necessarily represent total abstinence. Often, it appears in determined periods of sobriety – like “Dry January” – or in exploring alternatives, from non-alcoholic beverages to psychedelic substances, the latter sought both for their therapeutic benefits and recreational use. Brands like Botivo Drinks, Tourtel Twist (who is the first brand in France that took advantage of the insight “I don’t want to drink alcohol, but I still want to party”; hence its design with similar design codes to the beer ones) and Kiro’s Switchel meet the demand for pleasure without alcohol, emphasizing artisanal production and promoting conscious consumption. 

This presents a lucrative market for brands willing to innovate and cater to the growing demand for sophisticated, alcohol-free options.

Is your brand ready to tap into this evolving consumer landscape? 

Credit: Botivo, Kiro, Tourtel twist 

Capture decran 2025 03 13 a 12.15.02 2 1

Another illustration of responsible consumption and a compelling alternative to alcoholic beverages is the Maison Perrier brand.

To cater to a growing market segment, Maison Perrier has introduced its chic new range, featuring non-alcoholic cocktails and sparkling water-based drinks. This collection, with packaging designed by CBA, combines sophistication with a refreshing twist.

The phenomenon doesn’t necessarily represent total abstinence. Often, it appears in determined periods of sobriety – like “Dry January” – or in exploring alternatives, from non-alcoholic beverages to psychedelic substances, the latter sought both for their therapeutic benefits and recreational use. Brands like Botivo Drinks, Tourtel Twist (who is the first brand in France that took advantage of the insight “I don’t want to drink alcohol, but I still want to party”; hence its design with similar design codes to the beer ones) and Kiro’s Switchel meet the demand for pleasure without alcohol, emphasizing artisanal production and promoting conscious consumption. 

This presents a lucrative market for brands willing to innovate and cater to the growing demand for sophisticated, alcohol-free options.
Is your brand ready to tap into this evolving consumer landscape? 

Credit: Botivo, Kiro, Tourtel twist 

Capture decran 2025 03 13 a 12.15.02 2

Another illustration of responsible consumption and a compelling alternative to alcoholic beverages is the Maison Perrier brand.

To cater to a growing market segment, Maison Perrier has introduced its chic new range, featuring non-alcoholic cocktails and sparkling water-based drinks. This collection, with packaging designed by CBA, combines sophistication with a refreshing twist.

/ The On-Off Generation in action: examples of duality
Design sans titre 17

Credit: Hinge

The phrase “After the effort, comes the comfort,” popularized on urban brand products, encapsulates this generational duality. It reflects a complex persona comfortable with apparent contradictions: the festival-goer who is also a marathon runner (example: when you are 30 and can’t decide on a lifestyle). 

Similar to the resurgence of analog: print magazines, fanzines, and diaries offer tactile experiences impossible to replicate digitally. Examples include the Hinge’s couples’ stories magazine, and Miu Miu’s Summer Reads campaign. 

But also other examples of how this duality manifests: 

  • Technology: “Dumb phones” offer a way to limit digital distractions, while apps like Instagram ironically incorporate “Take a Break” features. 
  • Music: listening bars and the vinyl revival offer a more active and contemplative listening experience. 
  • Travel: the proliferation of retreats promoting digital disconnection and mindfulness. 
  • Analog resurgence: the revival of print magazines, fanzines, scrapbooks, and diaries, which value tactile and manual experiences impossible to replicate on screens.  
  • Socializing: “Phone-free” festivals and clubs provide structured opportunities for disconnection. Even within the tech space, products like “The Phone” offer a smartphone aesthetic with limited functionality, addressing parental concerns and the desire for connection without constant digital access. 
/ the key question for brands: how to engage ?

How to engage with these multifaceted individuals? How to create messaging, products and services that resonates with both moments of intensity and conscious disconnection? 

It’s interesting to think that within the same portfolio, a beverage brand can offer options with and without alcohol, sponsoring events focused on mindfulness and others more festive. Or promote the importance of offline moments using physical events and analog resources, while maintaining a consistent digital presence strategy. 

Understanding this alternation mindset – which allows individuals to transition between periods of “total connectivity” and moments of focus or detoxification – has become essential for contemporary brands. 

CBA: YOUR PARTNER IN NAVIGATING THE ON-OFF GENERATION

At CBA, we understand the complexities of the On-Off Generation. We leverage our deep understanding of consumer psychology and our expertise in brand strategy, design, and communication to help brands create authentic and meaningful connections. 

This article is the first in a series inspired by the insights introduced in our Pulse 2025 report.  

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/ Better safe than sorry

Consumers are and will be proactive! They no longer wait until they’re sick to care for their health. They prevent illness and take care of themselves daily.  

This evolution can be explained by the rise of content on social media platforms that emphasize the significance of gut health. The pandemic has greatly influenced consumer habits, raising awareness of the importance of health, both physical and mental.  

Consumers are looking for overall well-being, and this includes inner health. This trend has become a major issue, as evidenced by the exponential growth of dietary supplements and probiotics. These products respond to a growing desire to take care of one’s microbiota, which has a direct impact on skin and body health. 

Consumers are and will be proactive! They no longer wait until they’re sick to care for their health. They prevent illness and take care of themselves daily.  

This evolution can be explained by the rise of content on social media platforms that emphasize the significance of gut health. The pandemic has greatly influenced consumer habits, raising awareness of the importance of health, both physical and mental.  

Consumers are looking for overall well-being, and this includes inner health. This trend has become a major issue, as evidenced by the exponential growth of dietary supplements and probiotics. These products respond to a growing desire to take care of one’s microbiota, which has a direct impact on skin and body health. 

/ Food supplements and probiotics: the pillars of inner health

The global market for gut health supplements is projected to grow to $21.85 billion by 2030, up from $11.72 billion in 2022, with a CAGR of 8.1%*.  

The global market for probiotic dietary supplements was valued at $18.4 billion in 2022, with a cexpected ompound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.1% between 2023 and 2030*. 

Capsules, powders, creams, foods … Brands are vying with each other in their ingenuity to integrate dietary supplements and probiotics into our daily lives. 

As a result, numerous brands have emerged, making dietary supplements more accessible and attractive while distancing them from their overly “pharmaceutical” image. These brands are investing in packaging with a refined, minimalist design that remains beautiful and captivating.

The global market for gut health supplements is projected to grow to $21.85 billion by 2030, up from $11.72 billion in 2022, with a CAGR of 8.1%*.  

The global market for probiotic dietary supplements was valued at $18.4 billion in 2022, with a cexpected ompound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.1% between 2023 and 2030*. 

Capsules, powders, creams, foods … Brands are vying with each other in their ingenuity to integrate dietary supplements and probiotics into our daily lives. 

As a result, numerous brands have emerged, making dietary supplements more accessible and attractive while distancing them from their overly “pharmaceutical” image. These brands are investing in packaging with a refined, minimalist design that remains beautiful and captivating.

HUM Nutrition is a Los Angeles-based dietary supplement brand renowned for its holistic approach to beauty. It stands out for its colorful labels and eye-catching messages for health-conscious consumers. 

Credit: Hum Nutrition

Credit: Hum Nutrition

HUM Nutrition est une marque de compléments alimentaires, née à Los Angeles, reconnue pour son approche holistique de la beautéElle se distingue par ses étiquettes colorées et ses messages accrocheurs qui attirent l’œil des consommateurs soucieux de leur santé. 

Crédit : Hum Nutrition

Aime Skincare is a dietary supplement brand that believes inner health is reflected on the outside. The brand guides women towards a healthy, natural routine through micronutrition. With its minimalistic packaging in soft, light colors and storytelling focused on benevolence and the experience of its founder, Aime convinces and attracts consumers to try its products. 

Aime Skincare is a dietary supplement brand that believes inner health is reflected on the outside. The brand guides women towards a healthy, natural routine through micronutrition. With its minimalistic packaging in soft, light colors and storytelling focused on benevolence and the experience of its founder, Aime convinces and attracts consumers to try its products. 

Credit: Aime Skincare

/ Pharmacies reinvent themselves

Facing increasing competition due to changing consumer habits and new markets, pharmacies must reinvent themselves to stay relevant. 

Architecture and spatial planning are crucial to their transformation. By expanding and designing appealing architecture, pharmacies can expand and broaden their offerings to attract a larger customer base.  

Both the interior and exterior of pharmacies are key. The pharmacy facade plays a crucial role in this transformation, becoming a space for play and differentiation, where every detail, from the colors to the materials used, is carefully thought out to attract attention.   

Pharmacy design is evolving to become a more attractive place to shop, where customers enjoy spending time. This transformation also involves diversifying the services on offer: there are areas dedicated to mental well-being and overall health, preventive treatments, vaccination stands, and so on. 

31zSUBPARIS1 superJumbo

Credit: CityPharma

Citypharma is expanding its offerings beyond its traditional role as a medicine supplier to become a dedicated space for overall health and well-being. This evolution is demonstrated through the integration of new services and products. Consumers come to Citypharma not only to buy medicines but also to stock up on food supplements and beauty products.  

This diversification enables pharmacies to attract a wider and more varied clientele, responding to the changing needs of modern consumers. 

31zSUBPARIS1 superJumbo

Credit: CityPharma

Citypharma is expanding its offerings beyond its traditional role as a medicine supplier to become a dedicated space for overall health and well-being. This evolution is demonstrated through the integration of new services and products. Consumers come to Citypharma not only to buy medicines but also to stock up on food supplements and beauty products.  

This diversification enables pharmacies to attract a wider and more varied clientele, responding to the changing needs of modern consumers. 

Facing increasing competition due to changing consumer habits and new markets, pharmacies must reinvent themselves to stay relevant. 

Architecture and spatial planning are crucial to their transformation. By expanding and designing appealing architecture, pharmacies can expand and broaden their offerings to attract a larger customer base.  

Both the interior and exterior of pharmacies are key. The pharmacy facade plays a crucial role in this transformation, becoming a space for play and differentiation, where every detail, from the colors to the materials used, is carefully thought out to attract attention.   

Pharmacy design is evolving to become a more attractive place to shop, where customers enjoy spending time. This transformation also involves diversifying the services on offer: there are areas dedicated to mental well-being and overall health, preventive treatments, vaccination stands, and so on. 

Citypharma is expanding its offerings beyond its traditional role as a medicine supplier to become a dedicated space for overall health and well-being. This evolution is demonstrated through the integration of new services and products. Consumers come to Citypharma not only to buy medicines but also to stock up on food supplements and beauty products.  

This diversification enables pharmacies to attract a wider and more varied clientele, responding to the changing needs of modern consumers. 

31zSUBPARIS1 superJumbo

Credit: CityPharma

Pharmacy takes on a whole new dimension when the giants get involved!

Amazon has now launched Amazon Pharmacy, providing same-day delivery of prescription drugs in New York and Los Angeles. These pharmacies have a team of pharmacists and delivery drivers to handle requests quickly. AI is integrated into these pharmacies, enabling pharmacists to process requests more quickly and ensure that the right prescription drugs are delivered. 

Pharmacy takes on a whole new dimension when the giants get involved!

Amazon has now launched Amazon Pharmacy, providing same-day delivery of prescription drugs in New York and Los Angeles. These pharmacies have a team of pharmacists and delivery drivers to handle requests quickly. AI is integrated into these pharmacies, enabling pharmacists to process requests more quickly and ensure that the right prescription drugs are delivered. 

Pharmacy takes on a whole new dimension when the giants get involved!

Amazon has now launched Amazon Pharmacy, providing same-day delivery of prescription drugs in New York and Los Angeles. These pharmacies have a team of pharmacists and delivery drivers to handle requests quickly. AI is integrated into these pharmacies, enabling pharmacists to process requests more quickly and ensure that the right prescription drugs are delivered. 

Credit: Amazon Pharmacy

This trend of online pharmacies, especially in the United States, is supported by key figures: According to Grand View Research, the global “ePharmacy” market size was valued at USD 60.0 billion in 2022 (North America) and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.4% from 2023 to 2030. 

The entry of major players such as Amazon in this sector confirms the attractiveness and growth potential of this market. Their presence has the potential to catalyze major changes in how pharmacy services are viewed and used, opening up new opportunities for market growth and development. 

Credit: LSA Green

The Carré Opéra pharmacy in Paris is a great example of how digitalization can enhance the customer experience. Redesigned to build  customer loyalty, this pharmacy has adopted an innovative approach to sustainable development. One of the striking new features is the introduction of the “Pharma-Recharge” service. This concept enables customers to refill 15 emblematic products from 8 different brands in an eco-friendly glass bottle. This initiative aims to promote a more sustainable way of consumption while offering reduced prices. By providing bulk derma-cosmetic products, the pharmacy is actively committed to a more sustainable planet, proving that brands can be vehicles for transformation.

Credit: LSA Green

The Carré Opéra pharmacy in Paris is a great example of how digitalization can enhance the customer experience. Redesigned to build  customer loyalty, this pharmacy has adopted an innovative approach to sustainable development. One of the striking new features is the introduction of the “Pharma-Recharge” service. This concept enables customers to refill 15 emblematic products from 8 different brands in an eco-friendly glass bottle. This initiative aims to promote a more sustainable way of consumption while offering reduced prices. By providing bulk derma-cosmetic products, the pharmacy is actively committed to a more sustainable planet, proving that brands can be vehicles for transformation.

The Carré Opéra pharmacy in Paris is a great example of how digitalization can enhance the customer experience. Redesigned to build  customer loyalty, this pharmacy has adopted an innovative approach to sustainable development. One of the striking new features is the introduction of the “Pharma-Recharge” service. This concept enables customers to refill 15 emblematic products from 8 different brands in an eco-friendly glass bottle. This initiative aims to promote a more sustainable way of consumption while offering reduced prices. By providing bulk derma-cosmetic products, the pharmacy is actively committed to a more sustainable planet, proving that brands can be vehicles for transformation. 

Credit: LSA Green

French consumers demonstrate an openness to these new experiences. According to the “Bulk Market in 2020” survey directed by Réseau Vrac and Nielsen Panel Views, 63% of French consumers would like to buy in bulk the products they usually buy packaged. This figure underlines the growing interest in more responsible consumption practices and the acceptance of innovations such as those offered by Pharmabest Carré Opéra.

We are witnessing a true revolution in pharmacies, as they face increasingly fierce competition. To stand out, pharmacies must innovate and expand their product ranges. In addition to physical competition, online competition forces pharmacies to modernize their sales spaces and diversify their offerings to attract a larger clientele. 

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

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As our daily life is marked by technology’s constant evolution, we often believe that digital creates a certain distance in human interactions. AI’s emergence has reinforced this perception among the population.

According to INSEE’s study, the 2,2% increase in the turnover of supermarkets highlights not only a significant opportunity for brands but also the importance of these places for consumers who express their desires to continue to frequent them. It is significant to evaluate how hypermarkets, currently considered welcoming and meeting-friendly spaces, can use digital tools to improve the customer experience while preserving a welcoming environment that encourages social interactions.

As our daily life is marked by technology’s constant evolution, we often believe that digital creates a certain distance in human interactions. AI’s emergence has reinforced this perception among the population.

According to INSEE’s study, the 2,2% increase in the turnover of supermarkets highlights not only a significant opportunity for brands but also the importance of these places for consumers who express their desires to continue to frequent them.

It is significant to evaluate how hypermarkets, currently considered welcoming and meeting-friendly spaces, can use digital tools to improve the customer experience while preserving a welcoming environment that encourages social interactions.

/ WHEN HYPERMARKETS CONNECT WITH SOCIAL
/ When hypermarkets connect with social

Based on a study by Opinionway, 84% of French consumers feel that hypermarkets have a societal duty. These large stores are not just frequented for shopping needs, but also as a place to maintain social relationships, in both rural and urban areas. Indeed, these places play a key role in local life, contributing to a positive and sociable environment. They have beyond just commerce to become a meeting and exchange venue for the community.

This social aspect of hypermarkets is essential, especially in the age of digitalization and rapid urbanization, which can lead to isolation. Its significance is highly evident, not just in France but globally, and across all generations. Especially GenZ consumers are not ready to give up the in-store shopping experience. For instance, in the United States, 60% of Generation Z frequent shopping malls to socialize.

Based on a study by Opinionway, 84% of French consumers feel that hypermarkets have a societal duty. These large stores are not just frequented for shopping needs, but also as a place to maintain social relationships, in both rural and urban areas. Indeed, these places play a key role in local life, contributing to a positive and sociable environment. They have beyond just commerce to become a meeting and exchange venue for the community.

eduardo soares QsYXYSwV3NU unsplash

Credit: Eduardo Soares, Unsplash

This social aspect of hypermarkets is essential, especially in the age of digitalization and rapid urbanization, which can lead to isolation. Its significance is highly evident, not just in France but globally, and across all generations. Especially GenZ consumers are not ready to give up the in-store shopping experience. For instance, in the United States, 60% of Generation Z frequent shopping malls to socialize.

(Stylus : Remastering the mall new engagement strategies)

Based on a study by Opinionway, 84% of French consumers feel that hypermarkets have a societal duty. These large stores are not just frequented for shopping needs, but also as a place to maintain social relationships, in both rural and urban areas. Indeed, these places play a key role in local life, contributing to a positive and sociable environment. They have beyond just commerce to become a meeting and exchange venue for the community.

This social aspect of hypermarkets is essential, especially in the age of digitalization and rapid urbanization, which can lead to isolation. Its significance is highly evident, not just in France but globally, and across all generations. Especially GenZ consumers are not ready to give up the in-store shopping experience. For instance, in the United States, 60% of Generation Z frequent shopping malls to socialize.

(Stylus : Remastering the mall new engagement strategies)

eduardo soares QsYXYSwV3NU unsplash

Credit: Eduardo Soares, Unsplash

(Stylus : Remastering the mall new engagement strategies)

/ A new era for the retail industry
/ A new era for the retail industry

The incorporation of digital technologies in hypermarkets is not just a simple innovation, but also aims to significantly enhance the customer experience, making transactions smoother and more efficient. Although consumers appreciate technological progress, they still and will continue to value human interaction during their visits to hypermarkets. This underscores the need to balance digital innovations and personalized customer experience.

In Germany, the leading hypermarket chain, Lidl, has developed an application – Lidl Plus – to optimize its customers’ in-store shopping experience.

The incorporation of digital technologies in hypermarkets is not just a simple innovation, but also aims to significantly enhance the customer experience, making transactions smoother and more efficient. Although consumers appreciate technological progress, they still and will continue to value human interaction during their visits to hypermarkets. This underscores the need to balance digital innovations and personalized customer experience.

In Germany, the leading hypermarket chain, Lidl, has developed an application – Lidl Plus – to optimize its customers’ in-store shopping experience.

Lidl Plus 2 credit lidl.pl 1

Credit: Lidl.pl

Lidl Plus 2 credit lidl.pl 1

Credit: Lidl.pl

With a daily user base exceeding 786,500, Lidl Plus ranks first among the most downloaded and used applications in the retail sector. It notably provides a catalog feature that enables users to explore exclusive deals, promotional deals, and new arrivals. The app also offers the possibility to create and manage their own real-time shopping time lists, as well as locate their nearest Lidl store via geolocation. In some countries, the German chain has introduced an additional feature called “Scan & Go,” which lets customers scan their items directly from their smartphones, making the checkout process quicker and more convenient.

With a daily user base exceeding 786,500, Lidl Plus ranks first among the most downloaded and used applications in the retail sector. It notably provides a catalog feature that enables users to explore exclusive deals, promotional deals, and new arrivals. The app also offers the possibility to create and manage their own real-time shopping time lists, as well as locate their nearest Lidl store via geolocation. In some countries, the German chain has introduced an additional feature called “Scan & Go,” which lets customers scan their items directly from their smartphones, making the checkout process quicker and more convenient.

Credit : Lidl.pl

With a daily user base exceeding 786,500, Lidl Plus ranks first among the most downloaded and used applications in the retail sector. It notably provides a catalog feature that enables users to explore exclusive deals, promotional deals, and new arrivals. The app also offers the possibility to create and manage their own real-time shopping time lists, as well as locate their nearest Lidl store via geolocation. In some countries, the German chain has introduced an additional feature called “Scan & Go,” which lets customers scan their items directly from their smartphones, making the checkout process quicker and more convenient.

Increasingly, users are using AI (like Chat GPT) to make their daily lives easier. Many brands are embracing this new consumption trend, including the company Instacart. In collaboration with the Geissler group, they have optimized the customer experience using Caper’s smart shopping carts. These carts use artificial intelligence to automatically identify the products placed in them. Customers can also use their loyalty account, giving them access to customized promotions. This initiative aims to make shopping easier, efficient and personalized while minimizing in-store queues and congestion. This partnership aids in crafting an innovative omnichannel experience for the brand’s customers.

Increasingly, users are using AI (like Chat GPT) to make their daily lives easier. Many brands are embracing this new consumption trend, including the company Instacart. In collaboration with the Geissler group, they have optimized the customer experience using Caper’s smart shopping carts. These carts use artificial intelligence to automatically identify the products placed in them. Customers can also use their loyalty account, giving them access to customized promotions. This initiative aims to make shopping easier, efficient and personalized while minimizing in-store queues and congestion. This partnership aids in crafting an innovative omnichannel experience for the brand’s customers.

Smartcart Instacart Gessleir credit caper.ai 1

Credit: Carper.ai

Smartcart Instacart Gessleir credit caper.ai 1

Credit: Carper.ai

Increasingly, users are using AI (like Chat GPT) to make their daily lives easier. Many brands are embracing this new consumption trend, including the company Instacart. In collaboration with the Geissler group, they have optimized the customer experience using Caper’s smart shopping carts. These carts use artificial intelligence to automatically identify the products placed in them. Customers can also use their loyalty account, giving them access to customized promotions. This initiative aims to make shopping easier, efficient and personalized while minimizing in-store queues and congestion. This partnership aids in crafting an innovative omnichannel experience for the brand’s customers.

Credit : Carper.ai

To fulfill this growing need, hypermarkets must not only adopt innovative technologies, but also design spaces that encourage human interactions. Tesco is one of the brands that has grasped this trend and is seeking to create areas that stimulate social interactions. Hence, the British retailer collaborated with International Workplace Group to transform sections of its stores into coworking spaces. This innovative approach achieves two-fold objectives. On one side, it enables Tesco to maximize its space usage by turning its extra areas into offices designed for hybrid work, a trend that is becoming increasingly widespread with the evolution of the work environment. On the other hand, this initiative offers an additional platform for social interactions. These coworking spaces serve as a gathering and collaboration spot for professionals across various industries, thus promoting exchanges and sharing of ideas.

Tesco credit officelovin 1 1

Credit: OFFICELONVIN’

Tesco credit officelovin 1 1

Credit : OFFICELONVIN’

Tesco 2 credit officelovin 1 1

Credit : OFFICELONVIN’

This initiative reflects Tesco’s desire to revamp its hypermarket strategy to better align with the current consumer expectations, which go beyond just commercial transactions and incorporate social and community facets.

Tesco 2 credit officelovin 1 1

Credit: OFFICELONVIN’

This initiative reflects Tesco’s desire to revamp its hypermarket strategy to better align with the current consumer expectations, which go beyond just commercial transactions and incorporate social and community facets.

As technology advances and artificial intelligence emerges, hypermarkets have successfully navigated a balance between embracing these innovations and fulfilling consumer’s desire for social interactions. These actions show that hypermarkets are not just commercial entities. They also serve as places of living and sharing. Even with the rise of digital technology, hypermarkets still play a key role as places for social connection and exchange, demonstrating that technological progress and human interaction can seamlessly coexist in the retail industry.

As technology advances and artificial intelligence emerges, hypermarkets have successfully navigated a balance between embracing these innovations and fulfilling consumer’s desire for social interactions. These actions show that hypermarkets are not just commercial entities. They also serve as places of living and sharing. Even with the rise of digital technology, hypermarkets still play a key role as places for social connection and exchange, demonstrating that technological progress and human interaction can seamlessly coexist in the retail industry.

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

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Luxury brands face several design challenges that require them to balance their commitment to craftsmanship, aesthetics, and innovation with changing consumer preferences and market trends. One of the most significant challenges is maintaining exclusivity and uniqueness while also reaching broader audiences. To address this obstacle, luxury brands must find ways to create products that are exclusive and accessible, such as developing limited edition products or offering personalized customization options. 

Another challenge is staying at the forefront of design and innovation while maintaining the brand heritage. Luxury brands must be mindful of the fact that their products often carry a rich history and cultural significance, which must be reflected in the design process. At the same time, they must also embrace emerging technologies and design practices to stay relevant and competitive. 

Luxury brands face several design challenges that require them to balance their commitment to craftsmanship, aesthetics, and innovation with changing consumer preferences and market trends. One of the most significant challenges is maintaining exclusivity and uniqueness while also reaching broader audiences. To address this obstacle, luxury brands must find ways to create products that are both exclusive and accessible, such as developing limited edition products or offering personalized customization options. 

Another challenge is staying at the forefront of design and innovation while maintaining the brand heritage. Luxury brands must be mindful of the fact that their products often carry a rich history and cultural significance, which must be reflected in the design process. At the same time, they must also embrace emerging technologies and design practices to stay relevant and competitive. 

/ Fendi combines digital and physical.

In a long-term partnership with the luxury group LVMH and video game/software developer Epic Games, Fendi, part of the LVMH group, creates a unique customer experience by introducing 3D technology into its boutiques for bespoke creations. Leveraging Epic Games‘ Unreal Engine 5 3D design solution, select boutiques will offer their clientele hyper-realistic previews of customized products on screens. This new service aims at ultra-personalization, optimizing consumer engagement and satisfaction by involving them directly in the creation process. This experience not only enhances customer relationships but also provides a privileged and memorable experience. 

Credits: Fendi

In a long-term partnership with the luxury group LVMH and video game/software developer Epic Games, Fendi, part of the LVMH group, creates a unique customer experience by introducing 3D technology into its boutiques for bespoke creations. Leveraging Epic Games‘ Unreal Engine 5 3D design solution, select boutiques will offer their clientele hyper-realistic previews of customized products on screens. This new service aims at ultra-personalization, optimizing consumer engagement and satisfaction by involving them directly in the creation process. This experience not only enhances customer relationships but also provides a privileged and memorable experience. 

Credits: Fendi

Credits: Fendi

In a long-term partnership with the luxury group LVMH and video game/software developer Epic Games, Fendi, part of the LVMH group, creates a unique customer experience by introducing 3D technology into its boutiques for bespoke creations. Leveraging Epic Games‘ Unreal Engine 5 3D design solution, select boutiques will offer their clientele hyper-realistic previews of customized products on screens. This new service aims at ultra-personalization, optimizing consumer engagement and satisfaction by involving them directly in the creation process. This experience not only enhances customer relationships but also provides a privileged and memorable experience. 

Credits: Fendi

/ Bring the user experience to life through augmented reality.

Augmented Reality (AR), with a market value expected to reach $88.4 billion by 2026, is a technology that allows designers to innovate by creating 3D models. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the shopping experience by offering personalized and engaging interactions, such as virtual product try-ons before making a purchase. 

When fully utilized, retailers can harness AR to achieve business objectives. According to a Deloitte report, 71% of shoppers would likely shop more frequently when using AR-powered apps. Moreover, 40% of consumers are willing to pay more if they’re able to test a product in AR. 

Augmented Reality (AR), with a market value expected to reach $88.4 billion by 2026, is a technology that allows designers to innovate by creating 3D models. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the shopping experience by offering personalized and engaging interactions, such as virtual product try-ons before making a purchase. 

When fully utilized, retailers can harness AR to achieve business objectives. According to a Deloitte report, 71% of shoppers would likely shop more frequently when using AR-powered apps. Moreover, 40% of consumers are willing to pay more if they’re able to test a product in AR. 

Credits: SnapInc

Cartier‘s collaboration with Snapchat exemplifies how a luxury brand can benefit from augmented reality technology to elevate customer engagement. Through this partnership, Cartier enabled the public to virtually try on their Trinity rings. The lens uses machine learning to accurately predict the 3D shape of each user’s hand, ensuring a personalized experience. Previously, the French luxury house had collaborated with Snapchat to create a similar experience around the Tank Française watch. These initiatives not only enhance the customer experience but also reinforce Cartier’s brand identity as a pioneer in luxury and innovation. 

Credits: SnapInc

Cartier‘s collaboration with Snapchat exemplifies how a luxury brand can benefit from augmented reality technology to elevate customer engagement. Through this partnership, Cartier enabled the public to virtually try on their Trinity rings. The lens uses machine learning to accurately predict the 3D shape of each user’s hand, ensuring a personalized experience. Previously, the French luxury house had collaborated with Snapchat to create a similar experience around the Tank Française watch.

These initiatives not only enhance the customer experience but also reinforce Cartier’s brand identity as a pioneer in luxury and innovation. 

Cartier’s collaboration with Snapchat exemplifies how a luxury brand can benefit from augmented reality technology to elevate customer engagement. Through this partnership, Cartier enabled the public to virtually try on their Trinity rings. The lens uses machine learning to accurately predict the 3D shape of each user’s hand, ensuring a personalized experience. Previously, the French luxury house had collaborated with Snapchat to create a similar experience around the Tank Française watch. These initiatives not only enhance the customer experience but also reinforce Cartier’s brand identity as a pioneer in luxury and innovation. 

Credits: SnapInc

/ The Metaverse, a territory for brands to conquer?

The metaverse, a rapidly growing virtual world, offers an immersive experience where individuals interact with people, products, and places through avatars. This digital realm includes virtual marketplaces where users can buy and sell goods, services, and experiences, providing brands with a unique platform to express their identities and craft differentiated experiences. Analysts project that the market for virtual luxury goods could soar to USD 50 billion by 2030, highlighting the vast potential of this virtual world. 

For brands, the metaverse represents a new frontier to cultivate long-term customer relationships rather than focusing on short-term gains. Luxury brands can leverage this virtual world to offer experiences that transcend physical limitations, enhancing consumer loyalty and driving new revenue streams.

The metaverse, a rapidly growing virtual world, offers an immersive experience where individuals interact with people, products, and places through avatars. This digital realm includes virtual marketplaces where users can buy and sell goods, services, and experiences, providing brands a unique platform to express their identity and craft differentiated experiences. Analysts project that the market for virtual luxury goods could soar to USD 50 billion by 2030, highlighting the vast potential of this virtual world. 

For brands, the metaverse represents a new frontier to cultivate long-term customer relationships rather than focusing on short-term gains. Luxury brands can leverage this virtual world to offer experiences that transcend physical limitations, enhancing consumer loyalty and driving new revenue streams.  

The use of this tool by prestigious shopping centers like Printemps and iconic luxury brands such as Tiffany & Co., Gucci and Givenchy, illustrates its potential. For instance, Givenchy has embraced the metaverse by partnering with Roblox to create an interactive virtual world. This space features a dance floor, ice rink, and virtual makeup area where visitors can engage in challenges and win branded products. These brands utilize the metaverse to enhance customer experiences and engage their audiences in innovative ways, adapting to new buying patterns and showcasing the vast opportunities for growth and connection in this dynamic digital landscape. 

The use of this tool by prestigious shopping centers like Printemps and iconic luxury brands such as Tiffany & Co., Gucci and Givenchy, illustrates its potential. For instance, Givenchy has embraced the metaverse by partnering with Roblox to create an interactive virtual world. This space features a dance floor, ice rink, and virtual makeup area where visitors can engage in challenges and win branded products.

These brands utilize the metaverse to enhance customer experiences and engage their audiences in innovative ways, adapting to new buying patterns and showcasing the vast opportunities for growth and connection in this dynamic digital landscape. 

The use of this tool by prestigious shopping centers like Printemps and iconic luxury brands such as Tiffany & Co., Gucci and Givenchy, illustrates its potential. For instance, Givenchy has embraced the metaverse by partnering with Roblox to create an interactive virtual world. This space features a dance floor, ice rink, and virtual makeup area where visitors can engage in challenges and win branded products. 

These brands utilize the metaverse to enhance customer experiences and engage their audiences in innovative ways, adapting to new buying patterns and showcasing the vast opportunities for growth and connection in this dynamic digital landscape. 

/ Gaming universe

The metaverse is neither the only nor the most popular tool for adopting the codes of the digital landscape. Gaming has become more than just a trend; it is now an integral part of consumer habits. 

Today, gaming is the leading cultural industry. It is as much a part of our cultural references and heritage as music, comics, cinema, and so on.

Marie Bories, Director of Research and Marketing, Webedia Group       

The central place of gaming in daily life makes it essential for luxury brands to quickly integrate their codes to reach a young audience, which is expected to make 25 to 30% of luxury purchases by 2030.

A study conducted by Dynata for Webedia among a sample of 1,005 respondents aged 18 and over found that 66% of 18-34 year olds believe that integrating the gaming universe is a good idea for brands outside this universe. They see it as beneficial for making a product known (40%), recruiting new clients and/or rejuvenating a consumer base (35%), increasing sales (28%), and enhancing a product’s attractiveness (24%). 

The expanding role of the gaming universe as a powerful medium is exemplified by the initiatives of numerous luxury brands such as Cartier, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and many more. For instance, Cartier introduced “The Fabulous Cartier Journey,” an interactive video game as part of its “The Fabulous Cartier House” end-of-year campaign, aimed at enhancing storytelling and engagement with its audience. On the other hand, Dolce & Gabbana collaborated with video game specialist Razer to create a collection of clothing and equipment dedicated to gaming, while Tiffany partnered with Pokémon to launch an exclusive collection of necklaces. These examples showcase the various ways in which luxury brands are tapping into the gaming universe to connect with younger audiences and adapt to current consumer habits. 

The metaverse is neither the only nor the most popular tool for adopting the codes of the digital landscape. Gaming has become more than just a trend; it is now an integral part of consumer habits. 

Today, gaming is the leading cultural industry. It is as much a part of our cultural references and heritage as music, comics, cinema, and so on

Marie Bories, Director of Research and Marketing, Webedia Group       

The central place of gaming in daily life makes it essential for luxury brands to quickly integrate their codes to reach a young audience, which is expected to make 25 to 30% of luxury purchases by 2030.

A study conducted by Dynata for Webedia among a sample of 1,005 respondents aged 18 and over found that 66% of 18-34 year olds believe that integrating the gaming universe is a good idea for brands outside this universe. They see it as beneficial for making a product known (40%), recruiting new clients and/or rejuvenating a consumer base (35%), increasing sales (28%), and enhancing a product’s attractiveness (24%). 

The expanding role of the gaming universe as a powerful medium is exemplified by the initiatives of numerous luxury brands such as Cartier, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and many more. For instance, Cartier introduced “The Fabulous Cartier Journey“, an interactive video game as part of its “The Fabulous Cartier House” end-of-year campaign, aimed at enhancing storytelling and engagement with its audience. On the other hand, Dolce & Gabbana collaborated with video game specialist Razer to create a collection of clothing and equipment dedicated to gaming, while Tiffany partnered with Pokémon to launch an exclusive collection of necklaces. These examples showcase the various ways in which luxury brands are tapping into the gaming universe to connect with younger audiences and adapt to current consumer habits. 

The new opportunities of design present new avenues for luxury brands to innovate and differentiate themselves in the market while maintaining their commitment to exclusivity, craftsmanship, and tradition. By leveraging these new technologies and practices,luxury brands can create personalized and immersive experiences that resonate with consumers and establish strong brand identities that stand the test of time. 

The new opportunities of design present new avenues for luxury brands to innovate and differentiate themselves in the market while maintaining their commitment to exclusivity, craftsmanship, and tradition. By leveraging these new technologies and practices,luxury brands can create personalized and immersive experiences that resonate with consumers and establish a strong brand identity that stands the test of time. 

Do you have a challenge, a project, something else, for which you need support?

MicrosoftTeams image 1 1 1120x640 1

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

MicrosoftTeams image 1 1 1120x640 1

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report.

Did you know that on average, a household throws away 25 single-use plastic bottles of hand soap a year, most of which are not recycled?

The beauty and cosmetics industry has been in the spotlight for the past decade; sustainability criteria and new generations of consumers demand a radical change in packaging policies. What if our favorite products disappeared after use… along with their packaging?

/ Soluble packaging, what is it?

Water-soluble packaging, edible packaging… they all have the same purpose (and fate): enemies of single-use packaging, they’re meant to disappear! This innovative initiative, led by committed startups, offers an ecological solution to reduce plastic waste across all sectors. Designed to completely dissolve in water, soluble packaging eliminates the need to dispose of non-biodegradable materials, thus reducing the environmental footprint.

Soluble packaging is already a reality. According to Insight  Ace Analytic, the global soluble packaging market was estimated at $3.39 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $6.06 billion by 2031. This technology has already found its place in the food sector. How can we package water without leaving an impact on the planet?

NotPla, the startup behind algae and plant-based packaging, believes it has found a solution with its Ohoo range: water in the form of an edible blob. You basically eat your drink.

Ohoo2

Credit : NotPla

Soluble packaging is already a reality. According to Insight Ace Analytic, the global soluble packaging market was estimated at $3.39 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $6.06 billion by 2031. This technology has already found its place in the food sector. How can we package water without leaving an impact on the planet?

NotPla, the startup behind algae and plant-based packaging, believes it has found a solution with its Ohoo range: water in the form of an edible blob. You basically eat your drink.

 

Ohoo2

Credit : NotPla

And… what about beauty and cosmetics? Soluble packaging is gradually being integrated into all categories. From shower gels to hair care, makeup, body and hand soaps, cleansers, masks, creams… by expanding into consumer goods, all categories are affected. Several successful startups have already adopted soluble packaging as a competitive advantage. Let’s discover this trend together.

/ Gen Z: Balancing consumption and sustainability concerns

How to reconcile the desire to consume with the need for sustainability? Soluble packaging is an ideal solution for Generation Z. By offering products in single doses in packaging that dissolves in water, this innovation helps reduce waste. Gen Z, conscious consumer-actors, thus favor more sustainable options while maintaining their comfort, a smart compromise between consuming and preserving the environment.

INVISIBLEBAG, a soluble packaging provider, enables manufacturers and brands to replace conventional plastic packaging with compostable, biodegradable packaging without harmful residue on land.

 

 

How to reconcile the desire to consume with the need for sustainability? Soluble packaging is an ideal solution for Generation Z. By offering products in single doses in packaging that dissolves in water, this innovation helps reduce waste. Gen Z, conscious consumer-actors, thus favor more sustainable options while maintaining their comfort, a smart compromise between consuming and preserving the environment.

INVISIBLEBAG, a soluble packaging provider, enables manufacturers and brands to replace conventional plastic packaging with compostable, biodegradable packaging without harmful residue on land.

/ Life in plastic, not so fantastic

Reducing plastic waste is an unavoidable challenge for the beauty and cosmetics industry. From conception to disappearance, soluble packaging reduces the carbon footprint of our products, thus demonstrating our commitment to sustainability. We can FINALLY enjoy our well-being routine without feeling guilty.

Clean Circle, an engaged cosmetics brand, has created water-soluble eye patches after use. Deardot, on the other hand, has developed solid sheets that transform into cleansers after being moistened, all in a soluble bag that dissolves in the sink in… 5 seconds!

Clean circle

Credit : Clean Circle

Deardot2

Credit : Deardot

/ After soluble packaging, soluble ingredients?

One of the soluble packaging’s best friends is the soluble ingredient (bestie check!) The latter refers to solid formulations that, once moistened, take their final usable form. Solid formulations offer appreciable benefits in terms of stability, allowing high concentrations of active ingredients, resulting in a better user experience for customers.

Let’s focus on shower gels. The principle is both simple and ingenious: instead of regularly buying traditional bottles, which contain a large amount of water and are packaged in disposable plastic packaging, consumers can now opt for a format of shower gel in solid active ingredient. The latter comes in the form of bars that can be dissolved in water at home to reform the liquid shower gel. Refill, moisten and shake it off! It’s also a moment of entertainment and learning for children, Do It Yourself-wise. Your kids (and the planet) will thank you later.

Forgo, a Swedish cosmetics brand, has developed an effective solution to eliminate plastic: a refillable glass bottle and plastic-free paper refills to make hand soap. Just pour the refill powder into the bottle, add water, and shake (a Mojito, please)! Each refill means no plastic bottle and up to 85% fewer greenhouse gas emission.

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22

Credit : Forgo

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From self-care to household products, 900.care has already conquered the French market for refillable products. Having raised 21 million euros in April 2024, the startup continues its revolution within households.

900 care2

Credit : 900.care 

In summary

In 2024, soluble packaging is no longer a miracle solution; it is now a reality that addresses many sustainability challenges in the industry. Between consumption needs and global concerns, it fully meets the expectations of a new generation of consumers. Perhaps it is the lever you need for your next launch? You too, take the step towards change.

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

Do you have a challenge, a project, something else, for which you need support?

In today’s world, social connection is more important than ever, especially post-pandemic. Citizens, specifically Generation Z, are increasingly craving real-life social interactions and experiences. This shift in consumer behavior has had a profound impact on the retail landscape.

As physical retail gains momentum once again, brands are reevaluating the undeniable importance of brick-and-mortar stores. They are actively seeking ways to elevate brand experiences and create meaningful connections with their customers. This underscores the critical need to stay abreast of current retail design trends and consumer preferences.

/ CONSUMER NEEDS

Despite having less purchasing power compared to older generations, Gen Z comprises a significant portion of the global population and represents the future consumer base. Their proficiency with the internet and social media not only influences market trends and brand decisions but also plays a pivotal role in shaping the retail landscape.

Gen Z, being digital natives, shows nearly equal engagement with brands in physical stores and online platforms, as evidenced by survey published by ICSC in 2023. Consequently, brands must ensure a seamless path-to-purchase experience in-store that mirrors the online experience while offering tangible benefits to customers visiting physical stores.

In 2023, H&M introduced its first Beauty stores with a design concept inspired by cocktail bars, promising a social scene.

81ac

Crédit : Fashion Network et BeautyEQ

HMBeauty barinOslow

Crédit : Fashion Network et BeautyEQ

Similarly, VALRHONA, exemplifies how brands can leverage retail design to create unique brand experiences for visitors. While the stores feature dedicated sections for their products, the brand also developed a tasting table designed to immerse shoppers in a tasting experience, accompanied by a Valrhona expert.

This approach not only showcases products but also fosters a deeper connection between the brand and its customers, enhancing the overall retail experience.

ValrhonaParis 06455
Sans titre min
/ TECHNOLOGY

Technology continues to play an increasingly significant role in all aspects of our lives, including retail design. Over the past five years, retailers have embraced technology to elevate customer experiences. According to Stylus’s NFR, Retail’s Big Show 2024 report businesses implementing AI and machine learning have experienced substantial growth in sales (2.3 times) and profits (2.5 times) compared to competitors in 2023.

AI holds immense potential to support retail staff in assisting customers, with a survey indicating that 86% of consumers interested in AI for shopping want to explore its benefits for product research and information.
For instance, Instacart‘s AI-powered Caper Carts enhance the shopping experience by displaying personalized grocery lists, running promotions, conducting budget checks, and suggesting recipes based on contents.
 
Sephora‘s AI fragrance experience at their Champs-Élysées flagship store utilizes generative AI to offer personalized fragrance recommendations, streamlining the search for the ideal scent.

 

CaperCart 2

Crédit : The Verge

For instance, Instacart‘s AI-powered Caper Carts enhance the shopping experience by displaying personalized grocery lists, running promotions, conducting budget checks, and suggesting recipes based on contents.
CaperCart 2

Crédit : The Verge

Sephora‘s AI fragrance experience at their Champs-Élysées flagship store utilizes generative AI to offer personalized fragrance recommendations, streamlining the search for the ideal scent.

In addition to AI, virtual spaces hold significant importance in the retail sector, as exemplified by brands like Adidas. Adidas has tapped into the metaverse trend by launching pop-up shops on Roblox (metaverse gaming environment with pop-up stores), offering digital wearables and accessories tailored for the platform.

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Crédit : Adidas

In addition to AI, virtual spaces hold significant importance in the retail sector, as exemplified by brands like Adidas. Adidas has tapped into the metaverse trend by launching pop-up shops on Roblox (metaverse gaming environment with pop-up stores), offering digital wearables and accessories tailored for the platform.

Moreover, retail design innovations like Colmar‘s new flagship store in Milan showcase how technology can create immersive experiences for customers. The store features multiple LED screens throughout, with a horizontal LED screen spanning the entire shop facade providing real-time forecasts and air quality data. Additionally, an interactive LED floor recreates the visual and acoustic sensations of walking on snow, evoking brands natural habitat. 

These technological advancements empower brands to construct a universe where their vision seamlessly intertwines with customer preferences, offering a compelling investment opportunity.

/ POP UP STORE

Pop-up shops have become a captivating strategy for brands to attract young consumers. Inspired by the allure of “drop culture,” where limited-release merchandise generates hype and anticipation, brands are increasingly embracing pop-up stores to tap into this phenomenon.

In a market driven by a desire for novelty and sensory experiences, pop-ups can yield significant revenue boosts, often ranging from 20% to 30% more than traditional stores. Recent surveys highlight the success of brands experimenting with pop-ups, showing a 46% increase in sales, a 51% rise in market visibility, and a remarkable 66% boost in brand awareness.

Jacquemus showcases how the limited availability of hyped products in a drop ignites aspiration and desire among consumers. By capitalizing on new trends and niche markets through various pop-ups like those in London, Ramatuelle, and the Café Fleurs concept in both Paris and Seoul, Jacquemus not only provides an elevated, personable brand experience but also enhances its reputation and visibility. These pop-up initiatives not only generate brand awareness and create buzz but also attract new customers while retaining the loyalty of existing ones.
jacquemus selfridges london 08 1024x1024 1
JACQUEMUS SEOUL EXTERIEUR 45 04.jpg

Crédit : Superfuture, WWD et L’Officiel

Crédit : Superfuture, WWD

JACQUEMUS SEOUL EXTERIEUR 45 04.jpg
1645731080 1616830295687722 les fleurs jacquemus l officiel monaco cover 2 1.jpg

Retail design trends for 2024 highlight the importance of creatively blending experiential and transactional retail elements to foster engaging store visits and establish an authentic connection with consumers. As retailers embrace these trends, from AI integration to pop-up stores, the key to thriving in an ever-changing market lies in maintaining innovation and prioritizing customer-centric approaches.

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

Do you have a challenge, a project, something else, for which you need support?

Do you have a challenge, a project, something else, for which you need support?

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

Do you have a challenge, a project, something else, for which you need support?

The latest report published by Stylus highlights the exponential growth of the beauty market, reaching $85 billion by 2024, with make-up leading the way (33% of total sales).  

The cosmetics market is constantly evolving, with the emergence of distinct trends: the use of make-up as a means of countering so-called conventional and traditional beauty, and the rise of inclusive and accessible cosmetics, for all.  

The arrival of new players is prompting established brands to reinvent themselves and rethink their strategy to stand out. But how? That’s what we’re going to discover!  

/ OUT OF THE BOX

Makeup as a form of self expression

Consumers are looking for simpler ingredients, but also want to have fun and use cosmetics as a form of self expression.

In the 2024 edition of our Design Trends, we highlighted the « Out of the Box » trend. The new generation is rejecting the dictates of traditional beauty and aspires to greater transparency. They use makeup as a means of expressing their personality and embracing imperfections, without concern for societal judgment.

The idea of « perfection » is challenged, and « imperfection » or what could be perceived as original is brought to the fore.  

For now on, authenticity is elevated to the status of perfection.

Brands now offer products that let you play with textures and colors.

Between Laka (Korea) which offers chromatic products that reflect light or Milk Makeup (US) with its Jelly Blush, gelled blushes, brands are encouraging us to use makeup in a playful way and to express our personality! 

Crédit : Laka and Milk Makeup

Crédit : Fenty Beauty

Talking about originality, let’s take Fenty Beauty as an example.  

The brand has launched a palette of 6 highly original red and pink lip glosses, presented in the form of little restaurant sauce sachets, among which is hidden… ketchup. You can either discover the real gloss or come across real ketchup. A brilliant marketing move that has once again showcased the brand’s uniqueness and innovation in the face of its many competitors.

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR BRAND?

Embrace the strange, experiment, and encourage your target audiences to play with the products to step out of their comfort zone

/ Cosmetics for men? Yes please!

The rise of men's cosmetics

The market for men’s beauty products continues to grow, and according to Statista, it is set to reach 105 billion euros by 2028. There are many factors contributing to this surge in the men’s cosmetics.

Social media plays a significant role in the surge of cosmetics dedicated to men. Men now showcase their beauty routines on social media, accumulating billions of views. Men’s cosmetics are brought into the spotlight, allowing these gentlemen to realize both the aesthetic and dermatological benefits.

Trends Cosme Men

The number of male influencers in this market has been steadily growing since the global pandemic. In the US, Robert Welsh, an American YouTuber with over 1 million subscriber, posts videos featuring make-up tutorials, advice, and brand reviews. In France, Skincarebylouisoff, an influencer mainly active on TikTok with over 1.1 million subscribers, focuses his content on skincare and skin issues.

We’re witnessing an increasing number of men embracing cosmetics, which helps normalize their usage among males.

Famous figures such as Harry Styles and Jared Leto, who don’t hesitate to wear make-up and nail varnish, or Sam Smith, who shows off his beauty routine on Vogue’s Youtube channel, play a crucial role in breaking down these gender stereotypes.

Trends Cosme Men 3

Credit: Jenny Longworth

Trends Cosme Men 4

@jaredleto instagram account 

@vogue YouTube account 

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR BRAND?

The market is constantly evolving, and more and more men are becoming aware of their skin’s needs and the aesthetics benefits that make-up can provide. Consumers’ habits are changing and evolving!

To all brands, become active participants in this change! It is time for you to respond to this growing demand, while promoting inclusivity in this still highly standardized beauty industry.  

/ Addressing solutions through universal design

One motto? Inclusion.  

According to the World Bank, one billion people – 15% of the global population – have a disability. The inclusion of people with disabilities continues to gain ground. They are increasingly being highlighted and “considered” by brands.

We mentioned it in our article on Diversity and Design: many brands denounce the lack of representation in this market  

Gucci had chosen to name Ellie Goldstein, who has Down syndrome, as its brand ambassador. Although this choice has helped advance the cause, ‘media’ representation alone is no longer sufficient. Inclusivity must now be embedded in product design. 

CelebratingDiversity Visuel2

Credit: informations.handicap.fr

The focus is on universal design: creating for everyone, regardless of their unique challenges, be it mobility issues, visual impairments, autism, or tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease.

Trends Cosme ConceptionUniverselle

Credits: Rarebeauty.com et Lancôme.fr 

Rare Beauty, a makeup brand founded by Selena Gomez who suffers from Lyme disease, was designed for people with physical disabilities. The packaging is ergonomic, with each featuring a ball for easier product opening.

Lancôme, part of L’Oréal Group, presented its Hapta technology at the CES Show in Las Vegas in early 2023: a computerized, portable make-up applicator. This revolutionary device, based on AI, will help people with limited dexterity to apply lipstick or mascara. Through this technology, Lancôme is committed to making beauty inclusive and accessible to all.  

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR BRAND?

Following the life cycle analysis of a product, where the product is carefully thought out and designed to be more sustainable, it must now also be designed to be accessible and inclusive

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

Do you have a challenge, a project, something else, for which you need support?

The latest report published by Stylus highlights the exponential growth of the beauty market, reaching $85 billion by 2024, with make-up leading the way (33% of total sales).  

The cosmetics market is constantly evolving, with the emergence of distinct trends: the use of make-up as a means of countering so-called conventional and traditional beauty, and the rise of inclusive and accessible cosmetics, for all.  

The arrival of new players is prompting established brands to reinvent themselves and rethink their strategy to stand out. But how? That’s what we’re going to discover!  

/ OUT OF THE BOX

Makeup as a form of self expression

Consumers are looking for simpler ingredients, but also want to have fun and use cosmetics as a form of self expression.

In the 2024 edition of our Design Trends, we highlighted the « Out of the Box » trend. The new generation is rejecting the dictates of traditional beauty and aspires to greater transparency. They use makeup as a means of expressing their personality and embracing imperfections, without concern for societal judgment.

The idea of « perfection » is challenged, and « imperfection » or what could be perceived as original is brought to the fore.  

For now on, authenticity is elevated to the status of perfection.

Brands now offer products that let you play with textures and colors.

Between Laka (Korea) which offers chromatic products that reflect light or Milk Makeup (US) with its Jelly Blush, gelled blushes, brands are encouraging us to use makeup in a playful way and to express our personality! 

Credit: Laka and Milk Makeup

Crédit : Fenty Beauty

Talking about originality, let’s take Fenty Beauty as an example.  

The brand has launched a palette of 6 highly original red and pink lip glosses, presented in the form of little restaurant sauce sachets, among which is hidden… ketchup. You can either discover the real gloss or come across real ketchup. A brilliant marketing move that has once again showcased the brand’s uniqueness and innovation in the face of its many competitors.

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR BRAND?

Embrace the strange, experiment, and encourage your target audiences to play with the products to step out of their comfort zone

/ Cosmetics for men? Yes please!

The rise of men's cosmetics

The market for men’s beauty products continues to grow, and according to Statista, it is set to reach 105 billion euros by 2028. There are many factors contributing to this surge in the men’s cosmetics.

Social media plays a significant role in the surge of cosmetics dedicated to men. Men now showcase their beauty routines on social media, accumulating billions of views. Men’s cosmetics are brought into the spotlight, allowing these gentlemen to realize both the aesthetic and dermatological benefits.

Trends Cosme Men

The number of male influencers in this market has been steadily growing since the global pandemic. In the US, Robert Welsh, an American YouTuber with over 1 million subscriber, posts videos featuring make-up tutorials, advice, and brand reviews. In France, Skincarebylouisoff, an influencer mainly active on TikTok with over 1.1 million subscribers, focuses his content on skincare and skin issues.

We’re witnessing an increasing number of men embracing cosmetics, which helps normalize their usage among males.

Famous figures such as Harry Styles and Jared Leto, who don’t hesitate to wear make-up and nail varnish, or Sam Smith, who shows off his beauty routine on Vogue’s Youtube channel, play a crucial role in breaking down these gender stereotypes.

Trends Cosme Men 3

Credit: Jenny Longworth

Trends Cosme Men 4

@jaredleto instagram account 

@vogue YouTube account 

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR BRAND?

The market is constantly evolving, and more and more men are becoming aware of their skin’s needs and the aesthetics benefits that make-up can provide. Consumers’ habits are changing and evolving!

To all brands, become active participants in this change! It is time for you to respond to this growing demand, while promoting inclusivity in this still highly standardized beauty industry.  

/ Addressing solutions through universal design

One motto? Inclusion.  

According to the World Bank, one billion people – 15% of the global population – have a disability. The inclusion of people with disabilities continues to gain ground. They are increasingly being highlighted and “considered” by brands.

We mentioned it in our article on Diversity and Design: many brands denounce the lack of representation in this market  

CelebratingDiversity Visuel2

Credits: informations.handicap.fr

Gucci had chosen to name Ellie Goldstein, who has Down syndrome, as its brand ambassador. Although this choice has helped advance the cause, ‘media’ representation alone is no longer sufficient. Inclusivity must now be embedded in product design. 

The focus is on universal design: creating for everyone, regardless of their unique challenges, be it mobility issues, visual impairments, autism, or tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease.

Trends Cosme ConceptionUniverselle

Credits: Rarebeauty.com et Lancôme.fr 

Rare Beauty, a makeup brand founded by Selena Gomez who suffers from Lyme disease, was designed for people with physical disabilities. The packaging is ergonomic, with each featuring a ball for easier product opening.

Lancôme, part of L’Oréal Group, presented its Hapta technology at the CES Show in Las Vegas in early 2023: a computerized, portable make-up applicator. This revolutionary device, based on AI, will help people with limited dexterity to apply lipstick or mascara. Through this technology, Lancôme is committed to making beauty inclusive and accessible to all.  

What teachings can be derived for your brand?

Following the life cycle analysis of a product, where the product is carefully thought out and designed to be more sustainable, it must now also be designed to be accessible and inclusive

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

Do you have a challenge, a project, something else, for which you need support?

The latest report published by Stylus highlights the exponential growth of the beauty market, reaching $85 billion by 2024, with make-up leading the way (33% of total sales).  

The cosmetics market is constantly evolving, with the emergence of distinct trends: the use of make-up as a means of countering so-called conventional and traditional beauty, and the rise of inclusive and accessible cosmetics, for all.  

The arrival of new players is prompting established brands to reinvent themselves and rethink their strategy to stand out. But how? That’s what we’re going to discover!  

/ OUT OF THE BOX

Makeup as a form of self expression

Consumers are looking for simpler ingredients, but also want to have fun and use cosmetics as a form of self expression.

In the 2024 edition of our Design Trends, we highlighted the « Out of the Box » trend. The new generation is rejecting the dictates of traditional beauty and aspires to greater transparency. They use makeup as a means of expressing their personality and embracing imperfections, without concern for societal judgment.

The idea of « perfection » is challenged, and « imperfection » or what could be perceived as original is brought to the fore.  

For now on, authenticity is elevated to the status of perfection.

Brands now offer products that let you play with textures and colors.

Between Laka (Korea) which offers chromatic products that reflect light or Milk Makeup (US) with its Jelly Blush, gelled blushes, brands are encouraging us to use makeup in a playful way and to express our personality! 

Credit: Laka and Milk Makeup

Talking about originality, let’s take Fenty Beauty as an example.  

The brand has launched a palette of 6 highly original red and pink lip glosses, presented in the form of little restaurant sauce sachets, among which is hidden… ketchup. You can either discover the real gloss or come across real ketchup. A brilliant marketing move that has once again showcased the brand’s uniqueness and innovation in the face of its many competitors.

Crédit : Fenty Beauty

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR BRAND?

Embrace the strange, experiment, and encourage your target audiences to play with the products to step out of their comfort zone

/ Cosmetics for men? Yes please!

The rise of men's cosmetics

The market for men’s beauty products continues to grow, and according to Statista, it is set to reach 105 billion euros by 2028. There are many factors contributing to this surge in the men’s cosmetics.

Social media plays a significant role in the surge of cosmetics dedicated to men. Men now showcase their beauty routines on social media, accumulating billions of views. Men’s cosmetics are brought into the spotlight, allowing these gentlemen to realize both the aesthetic and dermatological benefits.

The number of male influencers in this market has been steadily growing since the global pandemic. In the US, Robert Welsh, an American YouTuber with over 1 million subscriber, posts videos featuring make-up tutorials, advice, and brand reviews. In France, Skincarebylouisoff, an influencer mainly active on TikTok with over 1.1 million subscribers, focuses his content on skincare and skin issues.

Trends Cosme Men 3

Credit: Jenny Longworth

We’re witnessing an increasing number of men embracing cosmetics, which helps normalize their usage among males.

Famous figures such as Harry Styles and Jared Leto, who don’t hesitate to wear make-up and nail varnish, or Sam Smith, who shows off his beauty routine on Vogue’s Youtube channel, play a crucial role in breaking down these gender stereotypes.

@vogue YouTube account 

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR BRAND?

The market is constantly evolving, and more and more men are becoming aware of their skin’s needs and the aesthetics benefits that make-up can provide. Consumers’ habits are changing and evolving!

To all brands, become active participants in this change! It is time for you to respond to this growing demand, while promoting inclusivity in this still highly standardized beauty industry.  

/ Addressing solutions through universal design

One motto? Inclusion.  

According to the World Bank, one billion people – 15% of the global population – have a disability. The inclusion of people with disabilities continues to gain ground. They are increasingly being highlighted and “considered” by brands.

We mentioned it in our article on Diversity and Design: many brands denounce the lack of representation in this market  

Gucci had chosen to name Ellie Goldstein, who has Down syndrome, as its brand ambassador. Although this choice has helped advance the cause, ‘media’ representation alone is no longer sufficient. Inclusivity must now be embedded in product design. 

CelebratingDiversity Visuel2

Credits: informations.handicap.fr

The focus is on universal design: creating for everyone, regardless of their unique challenges, be it mobility issues, visual impairments, autism, or tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease.

Trends Cosme ConceptionUniverselle

Credits: Rarebeauty.com et Lancôme.fr 

Rare Beauty, a makeup brand founded by Selena Gomez who suffers from Lyme disease, was designed for people with physical disabilities. The packaging is ergonomic, with each featuring a ball for easier product opening.

Lancôme, part of L’Oréal Group, presented its Hapta technology at the CES Show in Las Vegas in early 2023: a computerized, portable make-up applicator. This revolutionary device, based on AI, will help people with limited dexterity to apply lipstick or mascara. Through this technology, Lancôme is committed to making beauty inclusive and accessible to all.  

What teachings can be derived for your brand?

Following the life cycle analysis of a product, where the product is carefully thought out and designed to be more sustainable, it must now also be designed to be accessible and inclusive

To discover more trends, download right now our 2024 Useful Design Trends report. 

Do you have a challenge, a project, something else, for which you need support?