Greg Till

Global Consumer Trends Driving the Future of Innovation: Youniverse

Resonate with Consumers through Insight-Driven Innovation

Successful metamorphosis of consumer data and insights into innovation is a critical component to successful product launches. By identifying root motivations and deep consumer desires, Sensient can create an innovation roadmap that fuels purchase intent by appealing to particular aspects of consumers’ mindsets and shopping behaviours.

For example, as social and multi-faceted beings, consumers innately long for connection and expression. What does this mean for new food and beverage product innovation? Consumers are interested in product offerings that empower their understanding of themselves in a society, whether that be their dietary commitment, physical activities, age, aspirations for environmental safety, etc.

ACCORDING TO MINTEL’S IDENTITY TREND DRIVER, 53% OF BRITISH CONSUMERS SAY THAT IT IS IMPORTANT FOR THEM TO FEEL PART OF A COMMUNITY.

Translating personal goals and decisions into intimate product experiences enables consumers to see themselves and their values in that brand, ultimately, increasing the likelihood of a purchase. Tailoring products to hyper-personalized consumer needs can be a complex process, but Sensient is here with support and inspiration for your brand!

This blog is part of an ongoing series sharing observations about each of Sensient’s consumer trends. We break down macro consumer trends into snackable pieces to help inspire your innovation pipeline.

Click one of the trend images below to discover more…

YOUNIVERSE

INSIGHT TO PRODUCT

Sensient calls the rise of individuality and self-identity in the grocery and pet landscape “Youniverse”. The Youniverse trend highlights inclusivity—it’s not a privilege, but a right! To connect with consumers, brand innovation should look to connect with consumers on an individual level.

39%
of Italians would be interested in eating foods personalized to them.

39%
of German consumers have switched to brands with more sustainable food packaging in the last year.

66%
of French consumers buy domestically made food and drink products to support national employment.

Discover how some brands are helping consumers with their personal needs through new product innovation…

ROLL OVER EACH PRODUCT TO SEE HOW THEY CAPTURE THIS OPPORTUNITY:

Açai Sugar-Free Cereal with Coconut Flavoured Curls

The vegan and vegetarian product is kosher certified, diabetic-friendly, free from gluten, dairy, wheat, yeast, GMO, soy, egg, artificial colours, flavours, preservatives, and added MSG. This açai and coconut flavoured cereal can appeal to a range of restrictive consumer diets without needing to sacrifice on a delicious breakfast.

Rays & Shine Juice

Brands can appeal to sustainable and ethical consumers by offering them the chance to have a positive impact with their beverage or food choice. For example, this manufacturer donates 10% of their profit to charities and states to have donated 15 million EUR to charities so far.

Strawberry & Orange High Protein Snack

Consumers don’t have to leave favorite snack formats or flavours behind when they commit to personal diet strategies like ketogenic.

Bilberry-Yogurt Flavour 100% Original 4K Protein

This product offers a high-quality blend of four protein sources with a professionally coordinated amino acid ratio and it is claimed to support training and regeneration. Due to the high protein content, it is said to be particularly suitable for those who are figure-conscious and have an active lifestyle.

Country-Style Crisps

Lay’s salt and vinegar flavoured potato chips have been repackaged with an updated design. These crisps can appeal to sport fans by featuring the UEFA logo as a reference to Men’s UEFA Champions League and UEFA Women’s football of 2021.

Source: Mintel

Interested in exploring the Youniverse trend for your brand or a specific category? Reach out to Sensient’s Team to get started with exclusive, fresh ideas personalized to your story!