Canvas8

Taste is evolving. GLP-1 drugs are changing our relationship with food, impacting not just what we consume, but why . A recent study showed households with GLP-1 users significantly decreased spending on processed foods. This signals a shift from craving-driven consumption to a desire for truly satisfying experiences. How can brands adapt? Join Canvas8 and NYU food studies professor Amy Bentley as we explore the future of food and discuss how to design for a new era of taste – one driven by curiosity, not compulsion. https://lnkd.in/eM2kFmTh #food #futureoffood #taste #glp1 #innovation #foodie #health #wellness

Are you watching 'Severance' on Apple TV+? The series cuts through the corporate facade, revealing the chilling truth behind people’s our workplace anxieties in 2025. 'Severance' explores the unsettling premise of a surgically divided consciousness, where work and life are utterly separate. As Dr. Jorie Lagerwey aptly puts it in an interview with Canvas8, “[The series] reminds me of films like ‘Office Space’ from the 90s and ‘The Apartment’ from the 60s, with the recurring theme of the corporate drone. Every few decades, culture reflects on how bad this is.” The show's success defies dwindling streaming trends, proving audiences crave thought-provoking once-a-week narratives that grapple with corporate distrust, technological manipulation, and the very real struggle for work-life balance. Severance isn't just offering escapism; it's dissecting the "permaweird" reality of modern work and inviting audiences to question the systems that define their lives. Read Ciarán Howley’s case study to find out how brands can connect with viewers by tapping into contemporary anxieties and the explore the allure of a slow-burning mystery. https://lnkd.in/ezasnbrB #Severance #AppleTV #WorkLifeBalance #CorporateCulture #Antiwork #Permaweird #PopCulture #MustWatchTV #Capitalism 

In today’s society, the act of wearing headphones has become a common way to navigate through daily life, often serving as a means to block out the world and escape into a personal audio experience. However, this habit, though seemingly harmless, can have unintended consequences on both mental wellbeing and social interactions. As Anna Waletzko, Senior Behavioral Analyst at Canvas8, insightfully points out, “For many, headphones are a ‘barrier’ between ‘themselves and the outside world’ that can lead to social isolation.” She further explains that, “It used to be that you take headphones off when socialising [...]. Many have observed that younger generations in particular are setting clearer boundaries, and by wearing headphones, they are signalling that they do not wish to engage with strangers.” Waletzko’s insights highlight a growing trend where the simple act of wearing headphones signals a desire to avoid interaction, even if the individual is open to it. This shift in behavior invites us to reflect on how often we may be using headphones as a tool to disengage from the world, potentially missing out on valuable opportunities for authentic connection. Check out Isobel Lewis's piece in the The Independent to find out more. https://lnkd.in/g4RSGypD #BehavioralInsights #SocialIsolation #SocialConnections #Mindfulness #DigitalDetox #MentalWellbeing #Communication

Dynamic pricing, ticket touting, and hidden fees have contributed to a broad sense of frustration among gig-goers. These annoyances are particularly grim in the context of soaring costs - the average global ticket price for tour concert admission was $136 in 2024, up from $78 in 2015. With fans already paying out the nose to see their favourite acts on stage, why does the experience have to start with so much hassle? In my latest for Canvas8, I explore how DICE champions fairer ticketing and has built a platform that encourages live music discovery. With a fan-first approach and a refreshingly human brand, it shows that the ticket-buying process doesn’t have to leave you screaming at your laptop. Massive thanks to DICE's COO Katie Soo and Ellie White for your insightful contributions! https://lnkd.in/eRfk8KF5

It's World Book Day every day for some, but a recent National Literacy Trust survey revealed that only 1 in 3 British children aged 8-18 enjoy reading in their free time. This is the lowest number since the poll began in 2005! 📚📉 This decline is particularly noticeable among boys, with only 28% enjoying reading as a pastime compared to 41% of girls. While some blame pandemic-era school closures, the NLT actually saw an increase in reading enjoyment during lockdowns. So, what's the real issue? 🤔 Experts suggest several factors, including differing psychological traits, a lack of male reading role models, and the rise of gendered digital entertainment. 📲 However, technology isn't necessarily the enemy! Digital storytelling through video games, audiobooks, and platforms like #MerkyBooks can actually foster a love of reading in boys. It's all about finding the right balance and making reading relevant to their interests. 🙍♂️ How can brands offer boys a more mindful reading experience and encourage boys into more appealing reading pathways? Check out Kathryn Morrisby’s fascinating report featuring expert thoughts from Amy Lewis, Rebecca Driscoll and Kirstie Beaven. https://lnkd.in/ecpw72ic #WorldBookDay #Literacy #Reading #Boys #Education #DigitalLiteracy #Parenting #Books #Storytelling #Gaming #Audiobooks #RoleModels #Inspiration

In my latest report for Canvas8, I went into a bit of a rabbit hole of "Everything I brought back from..." videos and beautiful stories of local artisans to understand how souvenir purchases have changed. Thank you Professor Catheryn Khoo and Carolina Calcagno for sharing your insights. ✈️ Currently thinking of what I might bring back from my next trip to Japan.

Luxury-minded Gen Z are embracing fine fragrances as a “value-for-money” investment, fuelling a surge in South East Asia’s perfume sales. With thanks to Ann Gabrielle Domingo from Canvas8 APAC. https://lnkd.in/gzJUBBHY

Forget mass-produced trinkets! Travelers are now seeking unique, locally-made souvenirs that tell a story. From artisanal jewelry to handcrafted sandals, these treasures are transforming travel itineraries and fuelling a booming souvenir market. What's driving this shift? 👌 Authenticity: Travelers crave authentic, high-quality items that reflect the culture and craftsmanship of their destination. 🪅 Experiences over Things: It's not just about the object itself; it's about the story behind it, the connection to the place, and the memories created. 💚 Sustainable Travel: Supporting local artisans and businesses allows travelers to make a positive impact on the communities they visit. 🤩 Social Media Influence: Travel influencers and "Everything I brought back from" videos are fueling FOMO and inspiring souvenir hunting adventures. Brands should ditch the generic keychains and embrace the beauty of locally-made treasures. Your consumers—and your social media feed—will thank you. Check out Veronica Ferrari’s report to understand how the meaningful souvenir trend is shaping travel in 2025. https://lnkd.in/e6dkmk6e #travel #souvenirs #artisan #handmade #local #sustainabletravel #travelgram #instatravel #traveltiktok #travelinfluencer #luxurytravel #culture #shopping #trend #fomo

Want your events to hit the mark with every generation? This is a webinar you can’t afford to miss. What really drives engagement today? We’ve partnered with cultural insights agency Canvas8 to uncover the latest behavioural shifts across generations. Expectations are evolving fast – and events that don’t adapt risk missing the mark. You’ll walk away with: • Clear insights on what’s changing (and what’s not) • Practical tactics to deliver standout experiences for every attendee Whether you’re a marketer, event planner or business leader, this will shape how you design experiences that actually land. 📅 Sign up here to secure your spot: https://hubs.la/Q03cHNHX0

Move over, traditional fashion capitals! West Africa is emerging as a major force in the global fashion scene. Brands like FREE THE YOUTH, Pith Africa, Severe Nature, and WAFFLESNCREAM LTD. are captivating audiences with their unique blend of youthful energy, streetwear style, and sustainable practices. What's making West African fashion so hot? 👯 Youth Culture Powerhouse: A young, digitally savvy population is driving demand for fresh, culturally relevant designs. 😎 Streetwear Hype: Limited "drop" releases create buzz and exclusivity, fueling a sense of community and FOMO. 💚 Sustainable Innovation: Upcycling and traditional techniques like batik are transforming discarded garments into stylish statements, addressing the industry's environmental impact. 🌍 Storytelling: Brands are using social media to connect with their audiences on a deeper level, sharing narratives that celebrate African heritage and contemporary culture. From collaborations with global giants like Jordan, Spotify, and The Coca-Cola Company to the rise of e-commerce, West African fashion is experiencing explosive growth. These brands are not just creating clothing; they're building a movement that's redefining global aesthetics and empowering a new generation of creatives. Check out Nasir Ahmed Achile’s report to find out more. https://lnkd.in/eikthY_6 #fashiondesign #streewear #westafrica #ghana #nigeria #sustainablefashion #upcycling #circularfashion #ecommerce #digitalmarketing #storytelling #youthculture #culture #trend #fashion