The hottest Consumer behavior Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Business Topics

What is next for collaborations?

The Sociology of Business • 737 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
💼 Business Marketing Branding Collaborations Consumer behavior
  1. Brands are now combining different areas like food, art, and fashion to create unique experiences for customers. This helps them stand out and attract more attention.
  2. Collaborations allow brands to show their taste and connect with customers in a deeper way, almost like building a community around their identity.
  3. Creative directors play an important role in making brands culturally relevant by exploring new collaborations outside their core market, which helps them grow and stay appealing.

Are Social Media Platforms the Next Dying Malls?

The Honest Broker • 54723 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Social media Online Communities Digital Trends Consumer behavior Community Building
  1. Social media platforms are becoming less unique and are starting to look and feel the same, just like many malls did. This makes them more vulnerable to losing users.
  2. Just as malls suffered from having too many of them, social media is facing similar issues. People are overwhelmed with options and may start to abandon these platforms.
  3. Both malls and social media platforms attract a lot of unwanted behavior, making it hard to build real communities. They often feel artificial and exploitative rather than supportive.

The Sad Saga of Bud Light

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2986 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Branding Corporate culture Consumer behavior Economic Impact
  1. Bud Light was once America's favorite beer, but it lost its top spot after a marketing move focused on social issues. Many customers turned away from the brand.
  2. The shift towards diversity and inclusion in corporate strategies can sometimes backfire. For Bud Light, it cost them loyal customers and sales.
  3. It's important for companies to balance social goals with their business interests. Ignoring customer preferences can lead to serious repercussions.

How Onlyfans Took Over The World

Knowingless • 7901 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
💼 Business Online Platforms E-commerce Marketing Consumer behavior Sex work
  1. OnlyFans changed the way adult entertainment works by creating a sense of individual connection between creators and fans. This makes users feel like they're having a personal experience, even when there are a lot of other guys involved.
  2. The platform allows creators to reach a wider audience without much advertising support. Instead, users have to market themselves, which leads to a huge increase in the number of ads for OnlyFans across the internet.
  3. Agencies have become a big part of OnlyFans, managing content and interactions for creators. They help maximize profits by taking care of marketing and customer interactions, letting creators focus on content.

The age of SUPERCONTENT

The Sociology of Business • 957 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
💼 Business Marketing Branding Content creation Digital Media Consumer behavior
  1. Brands are becoming content creators to engage a wider audience, not just their customers. They create fun and informative content to attract fans and observers.
  2. Today's successful content is often found in show business style, blending storytelling and entertainment across various platforms. This means brands are constantly producing engaging material that keeps their audience interested.
  3. Content is vital for a brand's success, often affecting how products are viewed and sold. Good content can help a brand stand out and become more discoverable, especially in a crowded market.
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The Fed's Secret Confession: The Beige Book Reveals a Troubling US Economy

COVID Reason • 436 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
💰 Finance Economic Trends Market Analysis Central Banks Consumer behavior Global Economy
  1. The recent Beige Book shows that the U.S. economy is actually slowing down, not improving. Many regions reported economic decline, especially in manufacturing.
  2. There are rising concerns about job security and consumer spending. People are cutting back on spending due to financial worries and many companies are freezing hiring.
  3. Global economic issues are also affecting the U.S. market. Weak demand for products and looming recession signals are worrying for businesses and consumers alike.

Diamonds Aren’t Forever

The Bear Cave • 629 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
💼 Business Retail Market Trends Consumer behavior Jewelry Industry Analysis
  1. The diamond industry is in trouble because lab-grown diamonds are cheaper and just as good as natural ones. More people are choosing lab-grown diamonds over mined ones.
  2. Diamond prices are dropping fast, with reports showing sharp declines recently. Many buyers are frustrated with companies that refuse to lower their prices.
  3. Younger women are moving away from traditional mined diamonds. They find lab-grown options more reasonable and prefer spending money on experiences rather than expensive stones.

How Super Apps & Platforms Are Turning AI On Its Head

High ROI Data Science • 79 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🕹 Technology AI Platforms Apps Business Models Consumer behavior
  1. Super apps in Asia grow by offering many services to a smaller customer base, unlike Big Tech that focuses on single services for many users. This helps them cater better to local needs.
  2. The advantages of super apps include faster product development, lower costs for data collection, and a unique competitive edge through exclusive data. They can quickly adapt to market changes too.
  3. Wrtn, a South Korean startup, shows how a super app can combine multiple AI services into one platform. This model offers better value to users and keeps them engaged with ads instead of multiple expensive subscriptions.

American Advantages in Economies of Scale

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
💼 Business Economics Markets Consumer behavior Entrepreneurship Global Trade
  1. The size of America's consumer market helps businesses grow because they can reach a lot of people who can afford to buy their products. A bigger market means they can make more items faster, like how a big factory can produce more than a small workshop.
  2. Cultural similarities in America allow stores and brands to sell the same products across the country without changing much. This makes it easier for companies to run and for consumers to find what they want, no matter where they are.
  3. English, especially American English, is popular around the world. This helps American brands and culture spread more easily, making it a powerful tool for influence and business growth.

The Case Against Budget Culture

Culture Study • 6348 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Cultural critique Social norms Consumer behavior
  1. Budget culture often promotes greed and shame about money rather than a healthy relationship with it. Instead of feeling restricted, it’s better to think of money as a tool for living well.
  2. Many people see budgeting as a way to gain control over their finances. However, this mindset can restrict your personal choices and lead to feelings of inadequacy.
  3. Community and generosity should be prioritized over individual wealth accumulation. Sharing resources can foster a supportive environment that reduces financial stress for everyone.

Why Streaming Subscription Prices Will Continue to Rise

The Honest Broker • 25300 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
💼 Business Media Entertainment Pricing Strategy Consumer behavior
  1. Streaming subscription prices are increasing because companies are focusing on making more profit from fewer customers. They believe it's better to charge loyal users more instead of trying to attract new ones.
  2. The entertainment industry is cutting back on creating new content, which means we might see fewer movies and shows. This reduction is part of a strategy to maintain profits even as customer numbers decline.
  3. While big companies may struggle, this situation could open doors for indie creators. As larger companies shrink, new opportunities for creativity and innovation might arise for others.

Market Movers - 12 October 2024

The Wolf of Harcourt Street • 539 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
💰 Finance Market Trends Investment Analysis Consumer behavior
  1. MercadoLibre in Argentina is seeing a boost in consumer spending after a tough few months, with more people buying and selling on its platform.
  2. Nubank has made it easier for customers to increase their credit limits by using government bonds as collateral, giving them more financial flexibility.
  3. InPost is dominating the logistics market in Poland with a huge share of parcel deliveries and is investing in new facilities to handle growing demand.

#205: My TikTok Shop purchase history

Maybe Baby • 1214 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Consumer behavior Social media Lifestyle Product Reviews
  1. TikTok Shop has become a popular place for online shopping, making billions in sales since its launch. Many people, despite initial hesitations, are drawn to its simplicity and variety.
  2. While some purchases from TikTok Shop can be enjoyable, many items end up being low quality or unnecessary. It's easy to impulse buy when seeing products advertised by relatable users.
  3. Reflecting on buying habits can reveal a lack of thoughtful choices. Sometimes, the urge to shop online can lead to regret and a realization that we didn't really need those items.

It Costs A Lot To Look This Poor

Total Rec • 12102 implied HN points • 18 May 24
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Luxury Fashion Fashion Industry Social Commentary Consumer behavior Economic Inequality
  1. Luxury fashion often comes with hefty price tags, blurring the lines between quiet luxury and loud displays of wealth.
  2. The paradox of fashion highlights societal disparities, where expensive clothes are marketed, contributing to economic inequality.
  3. Consumers often aspire to own status symbols, even if it means sacrificing financial security, reflecting societal values and dynamics.

Getting to the Fun Part

The Transcript • 139 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
💰 Finance Market Trends Economic Policy Consumer behavior Investment Strategies Corporate Finance
  1. The economy is showing signs of resilience, with positive movements even though growth isn't super strong. People are feeling more optimistic about things improving.
  2. A drop in interest rates could lead to more business activity and investment. However, experts believe we might need more rate cuts for that to happen.
  3. Consumers are cautious but still spending. Overall, the job market remains steady, and many are waiting to see how upcoming events affect the economy.

How the Bud Light Debacle Predicted America's Corporate Vibe Shift

The Ruffian • 301 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Branding Consumer behavior Corporate strategy Cultural Trends
  1. Bud Light faced a major backlash after a marketing campaign featuring a transgender celebrity, showing how quickly consumer sentiment can change. This backlash resulted in a significant loss of sales and brand trust.
  2. Unlike typical consumer boycotts, the impact on Bud Light endured even after the company attempted to distance itself from the controversy. This highlights the lasting effects that cultural issues can have on brands.
  3. The Bud Light incident reflects a larger trend in corporate America where companies need to be more aware of the cultural-political environment. Brands must navigate these changes carefully to maintain their audience and market position.

In Praise of Slow Motion

Kneeling Bus • 224 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Automotive Market Trends Consumer behavior Real Estate Finance
  1. People are using rental cars for more than just driving, like napping or storing things. This shows a strange need for flexible space that traditional buildings don't meet.
  2. Many people spend a lot of time in parked cars, which might be surprising. It highlights a mismatch between what people need and what's available.
  3. Cheap money in the past allowed tech products to be offered at low prices, but it made basic needs like housing more expensive. This creates a gap between luxuries and essential needs.

AI influencer hype gone wild

Marcus on AI • 5572 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Productivity Tools Tech Trends Market Analysis Consumer behavior
  1. Many people are trying AI tools, but not everyone thinks they are effective. This shows there's a mix of interest and skepticism in using new technology.
  2. A recent survey revealed that while 79% of people have tried Microsoft Copilot, only 25% found it worthwhile. This indicates people are testing AI but still unsure about its overall value.
  3. People are not ignoring AI; they are being cautious and waiting to see if it meets their expectations before fully committing. It’s a wait-and-see attitude towards technology.

Not Much has Changed

The Transcript • 179 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
💰 Finance Macroeconomics Interest Rates Consumer behavior Investment Strategies Labor Market
  1. The economy is doing okay overall, even though growth has slowed down a bit since the Fed lowered interest rates. It seems like things are more stable than expected.
  2. Consumers are still spending, and there’s no big drop in retail shopping, which is a good sign for the economy. Most people are managing to keep up with their finances.
  3. Investors are holding onto a lot of cash right now and might be waiting for better opportunities to invest. Many think current asset prices are too high.

OnlyFans Sticky Business Model

SatPost by Trung Phan • 127 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
💼 Business E-commerce Digital marketing Entrepreneurship Financial Analysis Consumer behavior
  1. OnlyFans has grown rapidly, with many creators and subscribers, making billions in revenue. The platform allows creators to earn money through subscriptions and direct messaging.
  2. The business model of OnlyFans is unique. Creators can earn more by keeping subscription prices low and upselling personalized content through DMs, rather than relying mainly on subscription fees.
  3. The success of OnlyFans raises questions about the nature of online connections. While it provides income for many, it sometimes sacrifices genuine connection and quality of interaction.

Cultural methodology

The Sociology of Business • 319 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Cultural Trends Brand Strategy Social Dynamics Consumer behavior
  1. There are two important steps in cultural research: first, discover and inform by understanding a company's business goals and existing materials. This helps create a clear strategy based on culture.
  2. The '4Cs' analysis looks at culture, category, company, and consumer to identify areas for growth and opportunity. It involves diving deep into market trends and understanding customer values.
  3. To effectively communicate a brand's purpose, businesses need to align their strategy with cultural influences and ensure it resonates with their audience.

Is Recommendation Culture Making Us Act Nutso?

Total Rec • 8148 implied HN points • 06 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Consumer behavior Identity Decision-making Society
  1. Recommendation culture can lead to overkill, making every purchase feel like it needs to be perfect, which can cause unnecessary stress.
  2. Identifying strongly with brands and over-identifying with our purchases may simplify our self-concept based on what we buy, potentially clouding our personal values.
  3. Seeking validation through recommended experiences or products can create a false sense of community, leading to performative living and potentially isolating us further.

Results, Actually

benn.substack • 639 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
💼 Business Data Analytics Company Culture Market Trends Investing Strategies Consumer behavior
  1. Data-driven companies get a lot of attention, but many people still prefer investing in companies led by experienced individuals. This shows that experience holds significant value in business decisions.
  2. People like to be seen as unique or contrarian, but they often know what others like. This means that even when choosing something different, they still have a sense of the mainstream.
  3. There’s a funny perspective on what robots are, with younger generations seeing different meanings in technology compared to older ones. What one generation sees as a robot, another might just see as a gadget.

When Personalization Feels Fake: Starbucks’ Cup Messages, AI, and the Quest for Genuine Connection

Gad’s Newsletter • 26 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Customer Experience Branding Retail Consumer behavior
  1. Starbucks' new initiative to have baristas write messages on cups seemed nice but felt forced and scripted. Customers want genuine interactions, not corporate mandates.
  2. Personalization in marketing works best when it's real and meets customer expectations. If customers feel it's fake or too much, it can harm trust and satisfaction.
  3. AI can help personalize experiences, but it can also make customers uneasy if they feel their privacy is being invaded. The key is to balance tech use with genuine human connections.

Top Links 601 US grocery mayhem, the weight-loss boom, the history of meat extract and anti-humanism.

Chartbook • 500 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🍲 Food & Drink Nutrition Food history Consumer behavior
  1. US grocery shopping is facing major challenges and changes. Many people are feeling uncertain about what to buy and where to shop.
  2. There is a growing interest in weight loss and related products. This trend reflects a wider cultural focus on health and body image.
  3. The history of meat extract and themes of anti-humanism are becoming more relevant. These ideas encourage us to think about our relationships with food and society.

250 Things I Didn’t Buy This Week: Deinfluence Your Closet + Wallet

Total Rec • 5611 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Consumer behavior Personal style
  1. Be mindful of the constant push towards consumption in online spaces, especially by influencers and content creators.
  2. Consider the motivations behind your purchases - are they driven by genuine personal preferences or the desire to project a certain image?
  3. Distinguish between genuine style exploration and the temptation of instant gratification from shopping content, aiming for a more thoughtful and intentional approach to fashion.

'Just put your phone away' - Dec 2024 catch up service #1

Brain Pizza • 595 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Smartphones Social media Digital Culture Communication Consumer behavior
  1. Putting your phone away improves conversation quality. It's easier to connect and enjoy talking to each other without distractions.
  2. Smartphones are a big part of our lives, and almost everyone has one. They have changed how we communicate but can sometimes take away from real-life interactions.
  3. Being aware of smartphone usage can help us be more present in conversations. Taking a break from our devices can do wonders for our social experiences.

Top Links 610 China's procyclical fiscal. Whole Foods v. Trader Joe's. Pakistan's surprise rally & chess dominance.

Chartbook • 286 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
💰 Finance Economics Investing Market Trends Fiscal policy Consumer behavior
  1. China's fiscal policy has become procyclical, which means it is tightening when the economy needs support. This could actively hinder economic recovery in challenging times.
  2. Whole Foods and Trader Joe's represent contrasting business models, with Whole Foods focusing on premium offerings and Trader Joe's emphasizing value and unique products. This highlights different consumer preferences in grocery shopping.
  3. Pakistan experienced an unexpected rally, demonstrating resilience in its economy, alongside notable achievements in chess. This showcases the potential for growth and excellence in different fields, even in difficult circumstances.

☕️ How Starbucks Plans to Return to its Coffeehouse Roots with Free Coffee, a Brand-Led Strategy, and a Superbowl Adjacent campaign 📈

the case for brand 💼 • 72 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
💼 Business Brand Strategy Marketing Corporate culture Consumer behavior Market Trends
  1. Starbucks is focusing on its employees to create a better work environment. They are improving benefits and promoting from within to ensure happier staff.
  2. The company wants to bring back its community coffeehouse vibe. This means enhancing in-store experiences, like using ceramic mugs and offering free refills.
  3. Starbucks aims to clarify its identity and mission as a coffee brand. They are emphasizing their roots and what they stand for in their marketing and overall brand message.

Are Brands Coming For The Group Chat?

Total Rec • 2236 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
💼 Business E-commerce Entrepreneurship Consumer behavior Marketing Ethics
  1. Substack chats provide a space for genuine conversations and personalized recommendations, free from traditional algorithms and commercial pressures.
  2. The influx of brands into these organic spaces raises concerns about maintaining authenticity while allowing brands to engage profitably.
  3. Exploring the idea of creating online spaces that prioritize values like community, collaboration, and enrichment over the pursuit of vast wealth and success.

The Minivan Stigma Edition

Why is this interesting? • 904 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Automotive Identity Consumer behavior Market Trends Family Dynamics
  1. Minivans used to be very popular for family travel, but now they're often seen as uncool. This change is more about their image than their usefulness because they are still very practical vehicles.
  2. Despite the stigma, there's a growing trend of people using different types of vans for adventure, like those converted for #vanlife. These vans are seen as cool and can still be practical for families.
  3. There's a big opportunity for automakers to redesign minivans to make them more appealing. If they can combine the useful features of a minivan with a cooler look, they could attract more buyers again.

Customers don't care about your AI feature

Kyle Poyar’s Growth Unhinged • 1246 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
💼 Business Marketing Consumer behavior Product Development Technology Trends
  1. Most customers don't really care if a product is AI-powered. They want to know how it will solve their problems, not get lost in technical jargon.
  2. Highlighting the benefits and real outcomes of a product works better than focusing on the AI label. Show customers how your product can make their lives easier.
  3. Using 'AI' in marketing can sometimes backfire. It can lower customer expectations and doesn't always justify a higher price. It's better to focus on value rather than buzzwords.

Top Links 594 American consumers flipflop. Questioning the savings glut & the strain of too much scientific publishing.

Chartbook • 286 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
💰 Finance Economy Consumer behavior Savings Publishing Scientific research
  1. American consumers are uncertain about their spending and saving habits right now. It shows there's a lot of confusion about the economy.
  2. There's a discussion about whether there's too much focus on saving money in the economy. Some believe this could be a problem.
  3. The volume of scientific publishing is increasing, and this might be causing stress for researchers. It's important to find a balance in how much gets published.

TikTokers are spreading North Korean propaganda to sell supplements

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3582 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Influencers Propaganda Marketing Consumer behavior
  1. Some TikTok users are sharing North Korean stories to promote supplements. They claim life in North Korea is better than in the U.S.
  2. These videos often use AI-generated images and stories to grab attention and sell products. They can be bizarre and hard to believe.
  3. After being reported, many of the accounts promoting this content were taken down, but some continue to operate and push these products.

Super Bowl vs Valentine vs Duolingo's death — The best of brands and marketers

The Social Juice • 26 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Brands Advertising Consumer behavior Digital Media
  1. Marketing can feel really fast and crazy, especially with big events like Valentine's Day and the Super Bowl happening at the same time. It’s like a mix of excitement and chaos.
  2. Testing different email times for newsletters can help find the best way to reach more readers. It’s all about experimenting to see what works better.
  3. Investing attention in good content is important, just like spending money wisely. When you pay attention to quality, it pays off in the long run.

Advice for Nike and the NFL

House of Strauss • 41 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Advertising Sports Corporate strategy Consumer behavior
  1. Nike's focus on women's sports in ads is driven by the potential to tap into a huge female consumer market. They want to reach more buyers and expand their brand.
  2. Current ads from Nike and the NFL may not resonate well with audiences as they seem outdated. The messaging could benefit from being more simple and relatable.
  3. A family-centric approach, like emotional storytelling, could be a more effective way for these brands to connect with viewers in their ads.

Apple v The World in Two Charts

Tim Culpan’s Position • 59 implied HN points • 12 Sep 24
💼 Business Technology Market Analysis Consumer behavior Competitive Analysis
  1. Apple is ahead of its competitors like Samsung and Xiaomi when it comes to making money from smartphone sales. Revenue is the key measure of success.
  2. The smartphone market is starting to grow again, but Apple is still the leader despite some doubts from critics.
  3. Apple's high market value shows that their business strategy is working well, even if the overall smartphone market isn’t expanding as rapidly as before.

The Amazonification of Public Space

Kneeling Bus • 322 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Urban life Consumer behavior Digital Transformation
  1. Hanging out in public spaces is becoming more of a luxury, making it harder for people to find affordable options to socialize. Places like bars and coffee shops are either getting more expensive or are overcrowded.
  2. The pandemic changed how we use physical spaces, shifting more focus to online services, which has made in-person experiences feel less necessary. This change creates a cycle where fewer people engage in real-life activities, affecting the quality of those interactions.
  3. Many brick-and-mortar stores are now designed more for delivery and logistics than for customer enjoyment. This makes shopping and dining out less appealing, pushing people to stay home instead.

Starbucks Wants to be Chipotle

Snaxshot • 339 implied HN points • 13 Aug 24
🍲 Food & Drink Food Trends Consumer behavior
  1. Starbucks is trying to change its image and wants to be more like Chipotle, focusing on fresh and customizable food options.
  2. The company recently hired Chipotle's CEO to help with this transformation and bring new ideas to Starbucks.
  3. This shift shows how popular fast-casual dining is, and Starbucks aims to attract a younger, more health-conscious crowd.