The hottest Consumer Trends Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Why Secondhand Is Now Better Than New

The Honest Broker • 28990 implied HN points • 01 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Consumer Trends
  1. People are increasingly choosing secondhand gifts and goods because they feel more meaningful, ethical, and often classier than mass-produced new items.
  2. New products are seen as lower quality and more prone to scams or premature failure—even expensive brands—so vintage items are often more reliable and better made.
  3. Buying used gives access to unique, analog, or higher-quality objects, helps avoid AI-generated low-quality content, and sends a market signal that consumers reject declining quality and rising prices.

The Profile: The Spanx billionaire’s new invention & the DNA testing company running out of options

The Profile • 356 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. Telling stories from unexpected perspectives can make them more interesting. For example, focusing on a gravedigger during a famous event reveals a unique viewpoint.
  2. Sara Blakely created a new shoe that mixes style and comfort, but it has received mixed reactions. She sees this as a sign of innovation, even if some people think it's odd.
  3. 23andMe, a DNA testing company, is facing big challenges after a data breach and struggles to make a profit. Their future is uncertain as they try to stay relevant in the market.

Dumbphone Owners Have Lost Their Minds

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2269 implied HN points • 18 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Consumer Trends
  1. The logging-off movement around dumb phones is largely a marketed trend and, in many cases, a scam.
  2. A new industry has grown up selling expensive 'minimalist' phones and influencer-led digital detox courses to people who want to unplug.
  3. Much of the conversation is monetized—articles, courses, and subscriptions are gated behind paywalls or sold to audiences.

The merchification of Luigi

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2746 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Consumer Trends
  1. Merchandise related to controversial figures can quickly pop up online after significant events. For instance, items featuring Luigi Mangione appeared on various e-commerce platforms right after his arrest.
  2. The idea of walkouts in support of trends or individuals can easily go viral, but it's often just an internet joke rather than a real event. Observing trends in social media can help distinguish between what's genuine and what's a meme.
  3. America has a history of turning violent figures into pop culture items. Instead of ignoring this, it seems to be a long-standing part of society where people express fascination with notorious individuals.

The Essential Free Press Gift Guide

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1474 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Consumer Trends
  1. Finding simple items that make daily tasks easier can be a game-changer. A product that solves a small problem often ends up being your favorite.
  2. Sharing life-changing products with others feels rewarding. When you discover something great, you want others to benefit from it too.
  3. Gift ideas can be practical and still bring joy. A useful gift, like a luggage scale, can make travel stress-free and improve the overall experience.
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The Row 7 Flavor Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1085 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🍲 Food & Drink Consumer Trends
  1. Row 7 is trying to make vegetables tastier and more enjoyable. They believe that grocery store veggies often lack flavor because companies prioritize size and saleability over taste.
  2. Potatoes, usually thought of as bland, can be packed with flavor when grown from the right seeds in good conditions. A flavorful potato doesn't need lots of toppings to be delicious.
  3. Row 7's produce might be priced high now, but many people are willing to pay for great flavor. If they can keep improving taste and manage costs, they might attract even more customers.

Problems at Signet Jewelers (SIG)

The Bear Cave • 559 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. Lab-grown diamonds are becoming very popular, especially among younger couples, because they are cheaper and ethically sourced. Many people prefer them over traditional mined diamonds.
  2. Signet Jewelers, a major diamond retailer, is facing challenges as the market shifts towards lab-grown diamonds. They are trying to promote mined diamonds through a new advertising campaign aimed at younger customers.
  3. The diamond industry has a lot of hidden information and marketing tricks that make it hard to understand the true value of diamonds. An expert is now sharing insights to help clear up the confusion.

What happened to plant-based meat?

Open Philanthropy farm animal welfare research newsletter • 559 implied HN points • 07 Mar 23
🍲 Food & Drink Consumer Trends
  1. Plant-based meat saw a surge in popularity, but now faces stagnation and challenges, being labeled as a 'fad.'
  2. Consumer reception of plant-based meat is influenced by factors like price, taste, and health perceptions.
  3. To revive growth in the plant-based meat industry, innovation, patient investors, and positive media attention emphasizing benefits are crucial.

China’s AI Boyfriends

ChinaTalk • 444 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Consumer Trends
  1. AI companions are becoming popular in China, especially among young women. They offer emotional support and can fill gaps that real relationships might not fulfill.
  2. Startups like MiniMax are creating AI apps that gather user data while providing companionship. This helps improve their AI models, even if the immediate profits are not high.
  3. The AI companion market faces challenges from strict regulations and data privacy concerns. Many users share personal feelings with these apps, making safety an important issue.

A cultural history of the polski sklep

Vittles • 202 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Consumer Trends
  1. The polski sklep, or Polish shop, has significantly influenced British food culture since the EU expansion in 2004. It's become a popular spot for both Polish residents and locals seeking unique food items.
  2. These shops serve as cultural hubs, showcasing Polish foods like kabanosy and Tyskie beer, and connecting different generations of Poles as well as new customers from other countries.
  3. The polski sklep has evolved to include a wider array of European products, making it a blend of Polish and international flavors, and continues to adapt to the changing tastes of its diverse clientele.

Best of Brand & Advertising this week - Wimbledon aesthetics, gen-z drinks, agencies suffer & boycotts?!?

The Social Juice • 46 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. Ad agencies are struggling right now, with employment in the US advertising sector dropping for seven months straight. This shows that the industry is facing some tough times.
  2. Gen Z is starting to drink and buy homes again as the cost of living pressures ease. This shift suggests that they may be gaining more financial stability.
  3. Several brands are focusing on celebrating their roots and community through their advertising, like Prada acknowledging its Indian design influences. This might be a trend of brands trying to connect more with diverse audiences.

The rise of middle-class luxury brands and media networks.

The Social Juice • 48 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. Many brands are shifting towards luxury aesthetics to attract middle-class consumers. This means they are using things people find nostalgic or luxurious to grab attention.
  2. Fast fashion brands are blending their styles with luxury vibes to survive in a competitive market. Collaborations with celebrities and themed events are helping them connect better with shoppers.
  3. There's a trend where everything is seen as a luxury now. Brands need to adapt and find smart ways to market themselves in this new economy.

Christmas marketing is Wicked, Media brands fight for trust, and the rest is marketing on steroids.

The Social Juice • 14 implied HN points • 07 Nov 25
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. Christmas marketing is everywhere right now, with brands launching festive campaigns to grab attention during the holiday season. They need to stand out and connect with consumers really well.
  2. Media brands are focusing on rebuilding trust with their audiences, especially as accountability becomes more important in today's fast-paced digital world. This is crucial for their survival and growth.
  3. Many brands are taking big risks with their advertising to prove their value and effectiveness. They want to showcase results that go beyond just reaching a large audience, aiming for a positive impact instead.

The Downfall of Red Lobster. Private Equity and the Complexities of the Restaurant Industry

Gad’s Newsletter • 44 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. Red Lobster's decline came from a mix of poor decisions and weaknesses in management. They struggled with high debt and not enough investment in improving their business.
  2. The chain faced tough competition as more people preferred faster dining options. This change in consumer taste hurt Red Lobster, which relied on longer dining experiences.
  3. In contrast, Texas Roadhouse succeeded by focusing on strong leadership and customer satisfaction. They managed their growth wisely and kept their menu appealing to customers.

What happened in marketing: RIP TikTok, Instagram's weird redesign and next social media app

The Social Juice • 36 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. TikTok is facing a potential ban in the US, but the app is still trying to keep its users engaged. Creators are moving their audiences to other platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
  2. Instagram's redesign has not been well received. Many users are complaining about the new changes, particularly how it displays liked Reels.
  3. Google is facing antitrust issues and struggles with maintaining its search market share. Their new policies and updates are causing confusion among advertisers.

Brewed to Order: Starbucks, CosMc’s, and the Latte-est Trends in Mass Customization

Gad’s Newsletter • 38 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. Starbucks is changing its approach to customization by simplifying its menu. The new CEO wants to speed up service and reduce wait times, focusing on efficiency for customers.
  2. CosMc’s offers a wide variety of pre-set drink options, allowing customers to enjoy new flavors without the need for complex ordering. This appeals to those who want variety but don't want the hassle of endless choices.
  3. Mass customization means balancing individual preferences with operational efficiency. Companies like Starbucks and CosMc’s illustrate different strategies to meet consumer demands while managing service speed and complexity.

What happened in marketing: TikTok's last chance, ChatGPT hotline and LinkedIn's campaign manager makeover

The Social Juice • 31 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. TikTok is facing potential bans as the US Supreme Court considers a case about it. Companies are trying to find ways to keep users engaged despite the uncertainty.
  2. ChatGPT has launched a hotline, allowing people to interact with AI in new ways, which could change customer service and support.
  3. Platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram are updating their features to help marketers better reach their audiences, including new ad tools and insights.

How Live Sports Helped Netflix's Stock Surge 400%

Huddle Up • 16 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. Live sports have become a key factor in Netflix’s success, contributing to a significant increase in its stock price. It seems that people love watching sports, and that keeps them subscribed to streaming services.
  2. The involvement of high-profile investors, like Bill Ackman, in companies can also impact market trends and stock prices. When a big name invests, it often grabs attention.
  3. Streaming platforms are adapting to include live events to attract and retain viewers. This shift highlights the importance of diverse content to engage audiences.

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The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 3 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
💼 Business Consumer Trends
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You don’t bring me flowers, anymore

Klement on Investing • 1 implied HN point • 14 Feb 25
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. A lot of people in the US celebrate Valentine's Day, with 71% participating in some way. Many spend money to show love, which can feel less genuine when gifts are so expensive.
  2. The average American spends about $185 on Valentine's gifts, and this has increased over the years. People are generally spending more now than they did a decade ago.
  3. Interestingly, fewer people are buying flowers for Valentine's Day compared to the past. Instead, more people are spending on jewelry, which has become a popular gift choice.

TikTok, Robots, and Opportunities in Consumerland!

East Wind • 1 implied HN point • 28 May 24
💼 Business Consumer Trends
  1. Chinese apps are super convenient because users can do a lot with just a few apps. This makes life easier compared to needing many different apps like in the West.
  2. Western startups can learn from Chinese companies by focusing on unique user experiences and monetizing specific products instead of getting stuck in high-level research.
  3. Despite challenges in consumer investment, there are still exciting opportunities for new startups in the consumer space, especially by adopting ideas from successful Chinese models.