Speed and convenience have become the consumer norm. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, when people worldwide were introduced to instant access to goods and services via apps and digital platforms, the supply and demand considerably grew and splintered. The 'I need it now' culture shows no signs of slowing down, ye...

Because of the pandemic, many people have gotten more comfortable ordering food through apps and drive-thrus. Leveraging both, Taco Bell’s drive-thru-only restaurant, Taco Bell Defy, aims to make the process of ordering and collecting fast food as efficient and seamless as possible.

With successful vaccine rollouts putting the end of the pandemic in sight, people are eagerly anticipating the end of social restrictions. But how will a return to physical intimacy play out? Will people approach touching with trepidation or will they revert to pre-COVID-19 interactions?

With expectations for high-street stores shifting towards immersive experiences, retailers are in revamp mode. Tapping desires for experiential brick-and-mortar is Sports Direct – its latest concept store in Birmingham is giving people tailored and entertaining user journeys.

Northern Bloc has launched a vegan ice cream that’s packaged in fully recyclable tubs with an organic coating, as opposed to the commonly-used plastic. Amid the rise of sustainably-minded shoppers, it’s helping people to indulge in their favourite treats without compromising their eco values.