Happy New Year, PRedictions for 2012
Jan
2
Written by:
1/2/2012 3:37 PM
Welcome to 2012
Hello and welcome to 2012. I’ve done a bit of a review of what the ‘experts’ are predicating for us all in 2012. Below are the ones that seem to me most likely.
It’s a mix of industry predictions from trend forecasters, personal views from people who usually know what they’re talking about and a couple of predictions from the stars – because let’s face it, it’s all a bit of a guess, at this stage of the year……oh and I’m not mentioning the Mayan prophecy, positive thinking people.
FASHION TRENDS FOR 2012
According to a number of fashion journalists Hawaiian Prints, 60s shift dresses and miniskirts worn with flats, pointy stilettos and bright orange are all key trend for 2012. 60s influence also in hair and makeup, so start the back combing ladies and gents. Good news, whether this is true or not, I will definitely be rocking the 60s look, I’ve always been a fan.
SoLoMo – social, local and mobile.
The term coined by Google’s Matt Cutts and exemplified in the New York Times report on Black Friday that advertisers lured customers away and stole competitor sales while they were waiting on line to make a purchase – an awesome combination of social, local and mobile all being used together.
COOL BRITIANIA
Artisanal still goes strong, especially in food. And with the Olympics and Jubilee happening this year it’s easy to predict that all things British – especially with Royal and historical connections - will be big. In London we will be aiming at the influx of tourists, promoting experiences and products that are easy to take home in their luggage.
FAMILIARITY BREEDS CONTENTMENT
According to psychologists as we continue to be battered by the economy and who knows what else, consumers take comfort in familiarity. With this in mind retro and vintage touches to new ideas will help get them noticed.
What the professionals are saying…
Here’s my selection of predictions from trendwatching.com which I think are on the button, and worth working into PR and Marketing Campaigns this year– for more go to the website for Trendwatching’s 12 Crucial Consumer Trends for 2012:
DEALER-CHIC
In 2012, not only will consumers continue to hunt for deals and discounts, but they will do so with relish if not pride. Deals are now about more than just saving money: it’s the thrill, the pursuit, the control, and the perceived smartness, and thus a source of status too
EMERGING MATURIALISM
While cultural differences will continue to shape consumer desires, middle-class and/or younger consumers in almost every market will embrace brands that push the boundaries. Expect frank, risqué or non-corporate products, services and campaigns from emerging markets to be on the rise in 2012.
IDLE SOURCING
Anything that makes it downright simple- if not completely effortless- for consumers to contribute to something will be more popular than ever in 2012. Unlocked by the spread of ever smarter sensors in mobile phones, people will not only be able but increasingly willing, to broadcast information about where and what they are doing, to help improve products and services.
FLAWSOME
Why to consumers, brands that behave more humanly, including exposing their flaws, will be awesome.
RECOMMERCE
It’s never been easier for savvy consumers to resell or trade in past purchases, and unlock the value in their current possessions. In 2012, ‘trading in’ is the new buying.
And finally
Some good news from leading Astrologer Jonathan Cainer at cainer.com
“This particular year is supposed to bring all kinds of doom and gloom depending on who you talk to or which internet site you visit. …I'm happy to assure you that we're going to survive it all... intact!”