In the turbulent economic environment, money is losing its value. Consumers are reevaluating their spending across sectors. With a looming crisis of trust in financial institutions, how are people managing their budgets? And how can brands navigate the complex relationship between value and cost?

E-commerce giants have seen profits skyrocket in the past two years, but brands are launching flagship platforms to take consumers beyond mere transactional relationships. Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Julian Wichmann about the benefits of brand platformisation and building flagship communities online.

Against the backdrop of the cost of living crisis and holiday spending, Amazon is launching an initiative to give shoppers an opportunity to make more budget-friendly purchases. It speaks to the growing need for affordability and financial reassurance during periods of heightened spending.

Walmart’s Text to Shop service makes grocery shopping an achievable task for busy parents. Banking on the appeal of its familiar interface, it's hoped that the app will convert traditionally skeptic Americans into online shoppers through the promise of a freed-up schedule for family time.

Target has begun to offer free curbside delivery of Starbucks products alongside purchases, the first retailer to do so at this scale. Enthusiasm for curbside pickup has waned for shoppers post-pandemic, and many brands are increasing their offerings to appeal to convenience-minded consumers.