2014 has brought with it a multitude of unpredictable market developments.
In this annual review, we take a look at the product innovations and consumer trends that continue to drive demand and look ahead to the opportunities that lie ahead in the coming year.
Each month we offer you fresh perspectives, new data and ground breaking insight into the markets that matter. Subscribe to our newsletter now!
CHOCOLATE INNOVATION: THE TOP 10 TRENDS DRIVING THE GLOBAL CHOCOLATE CONFECTIONERY MARKET
Manufacturers continue to innovate around a number of flavours, both sweet and savoury – and consumers are increasingly curious enough to give even the most outrageous flavours a try. Here, Mintel’s Marcia Mogelonsky reveals a selection of 10 key trends seen in the global chocolate confectionery industry.
GLUTEN-FREE BEAUTY IS ON THE RISE
The growing awareness of gluten-related illnesses, such as coeliac disease, is encouraging those looking to remove gluten from their diets to take a more holistic approach. But it is not just food and drink where brands are looking to support consumers in this, rates of beauty products positioning themselves as gluten-free are on the rise.
8 INSPIRED PACKAGING INNOVATIONS IN THE HOUSEHOLD AND PERSONAL CARE MARKET
Household care product packaging can do much more than just hold the product. Not only can it attract attention on the shelf and provide important functional information, the packaging can also, arguably, do more to define a user’s experience with the product than the product itself. New packaging was the reason behind one quarter (25%) of US household care new product launches in 2013. Here, we showcase eight examples of innovative packaging from the household category.
3 ESSENTIAL TRENDS FOR SUCCESS IN THE MALAYSIAN DRINKS MARKET
The emergence of a more health-conscious consumer is driving up the consumption of juice in the Malaysian market as the beverage stands as a “better-for-you” choice to quench thirst or as a diet supplement. To get a larger share of the market, there are three key trends which successful brands are adopting to make their juices appear as natural as possible.
HOW THE FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR CAN CAPITALISE ON MINTEL’S “GET SMART” TREND IN 2015
Mintel has identified ‘Get Smart’ as one of four key UK consumer trends for 2015. As the world of synced devices evolves, tech is moving into our homes and onto our bodies. As trusted brands such as Google and Apple get involved, consumers are becoming more aware of – and confident in – using and adopting this technology.
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS SOME GLOBAL INSIGHT – YOUR VISUAL GUIDE TO THE FESTIVE SEASON
This holiday season, Santa will be making his merry way around the households throughout the World. Whilst he’s been busy dropping off parcels, we’ve been busy picking up statistics on consumer attitudes, market sizes and product launches, for what many retailers consider to be the most successful season of the year. Enjoy the video and a very Happy Holidays from all at Mintel!
5 THINGS YOU NEVER KNEW YOU COULD DO WITH BEER
With the rise of craft breweries worldwide, the global beer industry is getting more and more innovative. Along with the US, countries as diverse as Brazil and China are leading the way here. But flavour isn’t the only way that the beer industry is innovating, and the pint glass is no longer the only way to enjoy a brew – with these products, a wafer cone or fresh cheese and crackers may even be more appropriate.
CONSUMERS LOOK TO EXPAND THEIR SIGNATURE SCENT OUTSIDE OF THE BOTTLE
We all have our favourite fragrance and now some consumers are looking to expand their signature scent outside of the bottle. Following Mintel’s predicted key 2014 trend Mixologiste, blurring the lines between beauty categories is fast becoming a pull for global consumers who look to shake up their beauty routines.
Due to a lack of innovation since the postwar 1950′s era, the very phrase ‘Home of the Future’ conjures up retro images of everything from The Jetsons to Presidents Khrushchev and Nixon bickering over which superpower could boast the best kitchen at the notorious American National Exhibition in Moscow in 1959. In reality, the 21st century home of tomorrow will be shaped less by science fiction and more by statistical fact – namely the demographics of occupancy.
INDIA’S FIRST BRUSH WITH HALAL COSMETICS
The colour cosmetics industry in India is flourishing at a fast rate among the Indian population, making it one of the fastest growing markets globally. While we expect the industry to grow manifold in the forthcoming years, the Muslim community in India is a largely untapped consumer community which stands to benefit from halal products.
