The Organ Grinder’s Monkey

The November 2007 Monthly Briefing from Trendwatching has hit the e-stands. In this month’s edition, you’ll learn all about trends that will be affecting your business in the coming year:

Generation Z, or marketing to the 3-5 year old bracket (including a tidbit about the frightening effectiveness of in-utero marketing - I shit you not). Who’s affected: Anyone marketing anything to anyone over the next 20 years.

Blandtastic, the backlash to Massclusivity that has upscale travelers and shoppers flocking to decidedly mid-list brands. Who’s affected: Travel industries, those selling high-end products/services (you may lose out) or mid-list products/services (you stand to gain), those who provide support to these industries.

Eco-Fatigue, the backlash against the green call toward self-discipline and deprivation. Who’s affected: Pretty much anyone who’s either gone green or refused to.

Pet Passe, the un-petting of America as Boomers and others learn just how darn inconvenient and expensive those fur-babies can be for an aging rock star who wants to travel the world on a fixed income (grrrrrr…). Who’s affected: Providers of pet products and services (especially high-end), shelters, pet stores, etc.

Turquoise Triumph, the next color sensation poised to make your edgiest wardrobe choices obsolete. Again. Who’s affected: Anyone who follows fashions or is in an industry that relies on it. Another color prediction I ran across a few weeks back: Out with blue and brown, in with blue and silver. Just so you know.

Tags: Business, Society and Culture, Trends //