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.

Amid a supply chain crisis and geopolitical instability, the start of 2022 has seen many Americans experience a sudden rise in everyday costs. What tactics are they employing to cope with this increase, and how can brands both manage their bottom lines and better serve their customers?

As the cost of living crisis adds pressure to families' finances across the UK, people are looking to cut back on expenses and only spend on essential items. But these altered spending habits threaten sustainable shopping and eco-friendly behaviours as people opt for the cheapest options.

As well as displacing millions of Ukrainians and eroding global interconnection, the Ukraine crisis is going to cause significant disruption to global supply chains. Keeping prices down by adjusting logistics networks is one way brands could support people as living costs continue to rise.

The rising cost of living is seeing many Americans cut down on unnecessary spending. But at times of heightened stress, many also indulge in shopping as a form of escapism. So, how can social shopping platforms simultaneously help people limit their expenses and engage in retail therapy?