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.

From decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs) run on Discord to city-wide mutual aid groups, people are finding safety and optimism in numbers. For growing numbers of people, collective action is emerging as the only viable solution to compounding crises and deepening alienation.

Social norms have a big impact on our decisions – for instance, it’s commonly understood that we’re influenced by our friends’ and familes' food choices. Research shows that even the eating habits of our wider social networks such as colleagues can play a pivotal role in shaping our food choices.

The phrase 'garbage trends' has emerged as a tongue-in-cheek way of describing common, fleetingly viral fads, particularly those arising from TikTok. From fashion styles to memes, internet phenomena are coming and going so quickly that companies trying to engage with them must be particularly savvy.

To outsiders, TikTok may simply seem like an endless source of entertaining distractions. But beyond the musical duets and dance challenges lies a trove of useful tips designed to help the platform’s Gen Z users thrive. What exactly is #ProductivityTok and why is it flourishing?

Appealing to those seeking both convenience and healthy food, meal kits are expanding from doorstep delivery to grocery stores, where their à la carte options allow shoppers to make last-minute eating decisions. As we try to do more with less time, how are these kits transforming our days?