UK consumer behaviour in permacrisis: the value of connection
Economic pressure, geopolitical instability, the climate crisis and the accelerating race around AI have become part of everyday life. The UK has moved from omni- into permacrisis, and the impact on consumer behaviour is profound.
The future, both near and distant, feels harder to read. In response, British consumers are working to protect a sense of normality, control and emotional stability in their personal lives.
Yet as the world becomes more connected, content becomes more generic and automation moves into more areas of daily life, one thing is gaining renewed value: authentic human connection. In a time of constant disruption, it is regaining its value as a powerful currency for consumers, communities and brands.
For brands, agencies and professional services firms, this shift opens up new growth opportunities. The Connection Economy is about understanding where emotional value is being created, how spending priorities are changing, and how brands can earn relevance by helping people feel closer to what truly matters.
Why download?
Understand consumer behaviour in the UK under pressure
Explore how permacrisis is shaping British consumers’ priorities, spending decisions and expectations of brands.
Identify where consumers are willing to spend
Discover what UK consumers are currently prioritising, from home comforts and shared meals to leisure, holidays and meaningful experiences.
Decode the changing role of relationships
Learn how attitudes towards personal connection are evolving, and why everyday moments with friends, family and communities are becoming more valuable.
Unlock growth in the Connection Economy
See where connection-led opportunities are emerging in the UK, and how brands can respond with more relevance, empathy and impact.
Keep pace with what comes next
Understand how brands, agencies and professional services firms can navigate permacrisis and adapt to future consumer expectations with confidence.
Download the whitepaper
Get Mintel’s The Connection Economy whitepaper to understand how connection is becoming a powerful growth driver in UK consumer markets and what it means for your strategy.
