Now more than ever it's important to be sure that your product and service offerings -- and your marketing programs in support of them -- are hitting your intended consumer targets. There is no money and no time to waste in today's tough economy. A mistake or a misfire can easily result in financial losses that can severely damage -- or even sink -- your business.
I am a big fan of trendwatching.com and their series of briefings on consumer trends. According to trendwatching.com, you should pay very close attention to the following crucial consumer trends for 2011 (go here for a detailed list):
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In 2011, there will be no excuses left not to be kind as a brand. Here's why... Read more » Are you ready for hundreds of millions of more daring, more experienced consumers? And that's just one side effect of rapid global urbanization... Read more » Flash sales, group buying, GPS-driven deals: in 2011 pricing will never be the same... Read more » 4. MADE FOR CHINA (IF NOT BRIC) In 2011, expect an increasing number of 'Western' brands to launch new products or even new brands dedicated (if not paying proper respect) to consumers in emerging markets... Read more » In 2011, you can’t go wrong supplying your (online-loving) customers with any kind of symbol, virtual or 'real world', that helps them display to peers their online contributions, creations or popularity... Read more » As good health is now as important to some consumers as having the biggest, newest or shiniest status symbols, growing numbers of consumers will expect health products and services in 2011 to prevent misery (if not improve their quality of life), rather than merely treating illnesses and ailments... Read more » 7. SOCIAL-LITES AND TWINSUMERS SOCIAL-LITES are all about discovery, as consumers become curators; actively broadcasting, remixing, compiling, commenting, sharing and recommending content, products, purchases, experiences to both their friends and wider audiences... Read more » In 2011, brands and wealthy individuals from emerging markets (yes, especially China) will increasingly be expected to give, donate, care and sympathize versus just sell and take. And not just in their home countries, but on a global scale... Read more » With lifestyles having become fragmented, with dense urban environments offering consumers any number of instantly available options, and with cell/smartphones having created a generation who have little experience of making (or sticking to) rigid plans, 2011 will see full-on PLANNED SPONTANEITY... Read more » When it comes to 'green consumption' in 2011, expect a rise in ECO-SUPERIOR products: products that are not only eco-friendly, but superior to polluting incumbents in every possible way... Read more » 2011 could be the year when sharing and renting really tips into mainstream consumer consciousness... Read more » |
