Shopping: AI influencers are shaping Gen Z’s shopping habits

Why it is the topic trending: • Growing Acceptance of AI: There is an increasing acceptance and integration of artificial intelligence in various aspects of life, including entertainment and social media. The emergence of sophisticated AI-generated personas that can interact and promote products naturally leads to discussions about their influence. • Shifting Values for Gen Z: The…

Wellness: Can TikTok’s ‘Fibermaxxing’ Trend Help You Lose Weight? What Experts Think

Why it is the topic trending: • TikTok’s latest nutrition trend: The term ‘Fibermaxxing’ originating on a popular social media platform automatically generates interest and discussion. • Emphasizes a specific dietary aspect (fiber intake): Nutrition trends often focus on a single element, making them easy to understand and follow (at least superficially). • Claims potential health benefits,…

Snacking: Snacking Remains Popular, Though Momentum Slows in 2025

Why it is the topic trending: • Snacking as a Fundamental Part of Daily Life: Despite economic uncertainties, snacking has remained a deeply ingrained habit for U.S. consumers. • Increased Snacking Frequency: Nearly half of Americans (48.8%) are snacking three or more times a day, showing a year-over-year increase, particularly among younger demographics (18-44). • Snacking Fulfills…

Confectionery: How retail media and shopper behavior are shaping candy & snack sales

Why it is the topic trending: • Despite inflation, consumers continue to indulge in snacks and candy: This highlights a resilient consumer behavior in the face of economic pressures. • Impulse purchasing and comfort seeking drive sales: The article points to emotional factors influencing buying decisions in this category. • Importance of online and in-store discovery: Consumers are…

Confectionery: Top 4 functional trends in confectionery

Why it is the topic trending: • Consumer Demand for Functional Benefits: Consumers are increasingly looking for confectionery that offers more than just indulgence. They are seeking sweet treats with added health benefits, pushing formulators to prioritize functional ingredients. • Growing Awareness of Better-For-You (BFY) Confectionery: The National Confectioners Association (NCA) State of Treating Report 2025 indicates…

Fashion: Why TikTok is Suddenly Obsessed with the Cher & Future Gap Ad

Why it is the topic trending: • Unexpected Viral Rediscovery: A 2017 Gap ad featuring the unlikely pairing of Cher and Future has suddenly gone viral on TikTok, years after its original release. • Internet’s Collective Surprise and Delight: The internet community is expressing widespread surprise and enjoyment at the rediscovery of this “absurd, deliciously awkward” advertisement….

Luxury: Sustainable High-End Swimwear Brands

Why it is the topic trending: • Growing Consumer Awareness of Environmental Issues: Consumers are increasingly concerned about plastic pollution, particularly in the oceans, and are seeking brands that align with their values of environmental responsibility. • Demand for Sustainable Alternatives: There’s a rising demand for products made from recycled or sustainable materials as consumers actively look…

Fashion: Can Jewellery Continue to Outshine Fashion?

Why it is the topic trending: • Resilience of Jewellery Market: The jewellery market has demonstrated remarkable resilience amidst a broader luxury downturn, showing modest growth while other sectors like leather goods have shrunk. This contrast makes jewellery a noteworthy and trending topic in the luxury industry. • Shifting Consumer Preferences (Gen-Z): Younger consumers, particularly Gen-Z, are…

Fashion: This ’90s hair moment is back and TikTok can’t get enough

Why it is the topic trending: • TikTok Popularity: The article explicitly states that TikTok is driving the resurgence of the “Topanga” hairstyle, with users embracing and showcasing the look. • Nostalgia for the ’90s: The “Topanga” hairstyle is directly linked to the ’90s and the character Topanga Lawrence from the popular show Boy Meets World. The…