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Intervention: When technology takes over preventing us of doing stupid things

In the last few decades, we have made enormous progress for the whole humanity. In this context, please read the book “Factfullness” of Hans Rosling. More people than ever have access to good education, better health care and better hygiene. But of course it cannot be denied that all this progress – and the consumerism that results…

Trends 2020: The loneliness trend: product of our individualistic society

In 2020 we will feel the consequences of loneliness in all the facets of our individualistic society. The South Korean language has recently added three new words to its vocabulary, all referring to activities that people do all by themselves. Honbap (eating alone), Honsul (drinking alone) and Honeyong (going to the movies alone). The hikikomori (loners) are in danger of becoming a lost generation…

Why extensive trend analyses are necessary for strong innovations

The role of a trend watcher is not only to identify, interpret and wrap trends in a beautiful story that fascinates and inspires listeners. When I give lectures at home and abroad, I make sure that I use my trend stories to inform, entertain and, sometimes, shock those present to provoke reactions. But above all…

Culture of Shame

NewsThe first major trend of 2020 is the culture of shame. We used to brag about how we could be the first to show the new iPhone to friends and acquaintances. Now we prefer refurbished models or keep our iPhone in use a little longer. We see this culture of shame in all sections and…

The cities of the future become raw materials mines for a circular economy

The future of humanity lies in the circular economy. Since the industrial revolution, we have evolved and become experienced within the market model of the linear economy. We do realize that this linear model of take, make & waste is no longer viable. If we do not go along with the new circumstances, the planet…

TREND 2017 Hybrid consumption

Nowadays, customers have become more demanding than they used to. They have higher expectations from their suppliers, brands and goods than ever before. Those expectations have reached unprecedented levels. Consumers prefer to pay as little as possible for their products, have them delivered within 24 hours, and have them easily returned if products do not…