The metro or the underground might seem like a nightmare, but spare a thought for those navigating their way through Shinjuku Station in Tokyo. It’s the busiest station in the world and with a daily footfall that's double that of London Victoria, there’s now an app to help commuters get around.

According to research from the Institute for Employment Research (IAB), the average distance that German commuters travelled for work rose by 21% between 2000 and 2014. As people adapt to longer journeys, brands have the opportunity to help them make the most of their downtime.

Vending machines are usually the first port of call when we get that craving for a sugary treat – and Japan is home to 4.9 million of them. But faced with rising competition, operators are expanding their offerings, dispensing everything from diapers to cancer-awareness ribbons.

Data from the Bureau of Statistics shows Australians travel an average of 16 km to get into work, with high earners travelling even further. Frustrated by expensive and inefficient public transport services, most prefer the comfort and autonomy of their own car.