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.

A survey has revealed that American faith in societally important institutions continues to fall, with trust in some – like Big Tech and public schools – at an all-time low. Americans are looking towards peer-to-peer recommendations, putting their faith in smaller spheres of influence.

Shadowbanning, a seemingly common but often denied practice by big tech, is helping to further erode people’s trust in social media platforms. How can the brands engaging with these users online foster transparency and loyalty within a growing climate of distrust and paranoia?

Social media platform Geneva has become popular among Gen Zers who wish to connect privately and directly with other users who share similar interests. As people reject performative social feeds in favor of authentic online interactions, how are community-oriented apps keeping users engaged?

From fuelling global protests in the wake of George Floyd’s death to driving boycotts against ‘woke’ brands, the impact of social media on grassroots movements has become impossible to ignore. Why are these channels so valued by activists? And how can brands navigate through contentious issues?