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.

In a hyper-connected world, it feels like everything previously ‘insider’ is more available than ever: from behind-the-scenes access to the lives of public figures to travel experiences immersing people into worlds previously deemed unattainable. But while people embrace this community-based inclusivity and u...

Brands like Bubble are using alternative social media – often based around niche interests – to engage more deeply with customers. These platforms build loyal followings and allow brands to design products more mindfully with consumer wants and needs before anything else.

As part of its Water Bank collection, skincare brand Laneige is marketing across Reddit, specifically catering to skincare aficionados on the platform. The move coincides with a shift in social media behaviors that has younger users looking for more community-focused spaces.

In the past, the tween skincare market was dominated by legacy, utilitarian drugstore brands like Clearasil and Neutrogena. But today’s Gen Alphas are seeking products to help them put their best face forward. So, what can brands look out for as Alphas strike up a new skincare conversation?

The oldest Gen Alphas are turning 13. The majority are the children of Gen Yers and are the first generation born entirely in the 21st century. By 2025, this generation will grow to more than two billion – the largest generation in history. So what’s next for digital-first Gen Alpha tweens?