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.

We’re witnessing the ‘wellnessification’ of absolutely everything. Beyond boosting their physical health with fitness and nutrition, people are looking for a path to being well in all aspects of their lives, including their finances, careers, activism, spirituality, home design, tech usage, and so much more....

The mainstreaming of AI is setting a new precedent for how people relate to non-human sources of intelligence. While automation on a consumer level has typically focused on specific tasks like replying to emails or budgeting, it’s now swiftly expanding to a more dynamic range of applications.

The proliferation of plant-based meat products at restaurants and grocery stores across the US has expanded the dining options available to vegans and vegetarians – but their appeal is not limited to those following niche diets. What’s driving more and more omnivores to gorge on meat alternatives?

Snacking has been on the rise for some time, but even more so during the pandemic as people seek out comfort and simplicity through food. At a time when people are eager to treat themselves, Target is launching a snack brand with more than 700 indulgent products, from ice cream to macarons.

The pandemic has seen growth in snacking as people seek out comfort and nostalgia through food in turbulent times. But for those with allergies, indulgent snacks are few and far between, something Partake is hoping to change with its allergy-free soft-baked cookies and baking mixes.

From perfumes to furniture, there’s a subscription platform for everything – but why do some people keep paying for services they never use? Canvas8 spoke to Jennifer Savary, an assistant professor of marketing at the University of Arizona, to find out why cancelling a subscription is so hard.