Once a signifier of luxury or novelty, custom products and services are now within reach of the everyday consumer, thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence, algorithm-led platforms, and the COVID-era digitisation boom. Today, everyone wants to be the main character of their brand experience.

The pandemic has forced people to reassess every aspect of their lives – including how they celebrate holidays. With the potential of further job losses and lockdowns, how can brands help Britons get in the festive spirit? From digital dinners to festive unboxing, the devil will be in the details.

While some Britons are eager to return to normality and indulge in some retail therapy, others remain anxious about in-store hygiene and safety. Working to protect both shoppers and employees, Primark is changing its retail landscape as lockdown restrictions lift across the UK.

Panic-buying at supermarkets has made it difficult for many people to get hold of the everyday goods they need. With traditional fulfilment channels stretched by COVID-19, Heinz is embracing a direct-to-consumer model to get its products into pantries with just a few clicks.

Shuttered for months during lockdown, supermarkets, fast fashion outlets, and all manner of retailers across the UK are set to reopen in the summer. But are people ready to return to the high street? Canvas8 spoke to eight Britons to find out how they feel about shopping post-pandemic.