As the new post-pandemic normal settles in and people adapt to a context of uncertainty, constant adversities, and pessimism, we are moving away from a moment in which consumers expected brands to rise up to society's challenges and into one when they’re demanding genuine allyship from businesses.

The past decade has seen political polarisation – accelerated by social media’s filter bubbles and echo chambers – deepen and mutate. An ominous era of a polycrisis has shattered any remaining societal consensus. Meanwhile, powerful anti-establishment voices have stepped into the void.

Younger Americans are opting out of thanksgiving traditions, changing traditional menus to include non-conventional items as a cost-saving mechanism. The cost of living crisis is threatening traditions this holiday season, and Americans are looking for ways to adapt their celebrations.

Despite the vaccine rollout and easing of restrictions, a majority of Americans are planning on having a virtual 2021 Thanksgiving. A survey shows how COVID-19-related uncertainty and increasing familiarity with online interfaces is giving the traditional festival a lasting digital identity.

Holiday season travel for 2021 is set to look very different from 2020 as the desire to be close to loved ones means people have decided to travel to see them. But with many planning getaways close to their departure date to avoid disappointment, they're looking for flexible offerings.

Seasonal promotions are a long-established part of the retail landscape, with many shoppers waiting until occasions such as Black Friday to splurge. But to what extent do they incentivise purchases? Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Jonne Guyt about the implications of super-saver events for brands.