In the face of economic crises, climate anxieties, and global wars, people are seeking solace through connection. They want to be sure someone will hold their hand in the face of hardship. As a result, they have higher expectations of care and understanding from interactions with brands, social systems, and p...

Diverse representation is an expectation, but as individuals no longer allow themselves to be defined in singular terms, there's mounting pressure on brands to understand and sensitively reflect how the intersections between race, gender, class, and ability impact people's everyday lives.

Coco Chocolatier is rolling out two brands with ethics at their centre – one focuses on its vegan credentials, while the other is proudly made slave-free. The launches aim to tap people's desire not only for moments of indulgence but to enjoy these moments with a clean conscience.

M&M's has launched a campaign entitled Flipping the Status Quo, aimed at empowering female leaders. Introducing a new character and pledging to donate proceeds to female-focused charities, the brand is reworking gendered expectations and taking direct action with a playful edge.

After years of focusing on bringing joy to people through its ads, Cadbury has shifted its marketing to better resonate with current times. The brand pivoted its messaging to focus on togetherness and generosity, enabling it to resonate with conscious consumers amid global uncertainty.

Britons are treating themselves to their favourite foods and snacks for a sense of indulgence and solace amid a testing cost of living crisis. Canvas8 spoke to eight people to find out when and why they indulged in comfort foods, and to talk about their attitudes towards ‘guilty pleasures’.