In today’s tech-driven landscape, consumers are seeking play, authentic storytelling and more sustainable experiences. Continue through the report for full insights and key, actionable takeaways. This month’s trends spotted by GPJ Strategists Brandon Dolan and Donny Fox.

In an increasingly digital world, brands must help users learn to navigate new technology.

Every day the lines between our physical lives and the digital world become a bit more blurred. As the metaverse continues to accelerate and AI charts its course for the physical world, the omnipresence of digital technology is more apparent than ever.

Playtime isn’t just for kids, but it might be just what today’s adults need.

According to a research poll conducted in the UK, 56% of adults say they have lost their sense of fun, on average, by age 27. Perhaps the solution to this lies within kidulting, where adults engage in activities traditionally designed for children.

Today’s Super Bowl not only attracts more viewers, it offers more storytelling potential than ever before.

The Super Bowl has always been a tentpole event for brands. But today, those brands have access to more targeted engagement opportunities than ever before. This phenomena goes beyond the half-time show and Puppy Bowls. The Swift-Kelce love story has generated a 20% lift in NFL sponsorships and pushed Super Bowl advertisers to target a young female audience. More influencers in Super Bowl ads, and new and tailored telecasts are bringing in more diverse viewers, and CBS’ new camera angles are providing more in-game drama for viewers at large.

Governments in Europe are taking a bigger role in progressing sustainability initiatives over brands & organizers.

Consumer sentiment and new policies like the EU’s CSR directive are putting more pressure on brands to adopt sustainable business practices. The hospitality industry in particular faces challenges, with bans on single-use plastics in restaurants and a close eye on large music festivals. This renewed focus on a greener future leaves brands searching for the right partners to help their sustainability practices.

OUT-THERE EXPERIENCES

People, brands and marketers continue to push the boundaries of physical and digital experiences, with new and creative executions popping up across the globe.

Researchers studying spam accounts found that AI generated images are getting a major boost from Facebook– even this Jesus made entirely of shrimp! 

Dell just announced that employees who do not follow the newest return to office policy will not be eligible for promotions.

Netflix is planning a two-story immersive experience complete with dining, based on your favorite Netflix shows and movies.

One of the world’s biggest plastic polluters, Coca-Cola has just announced that all 20-ounce bottles will now be made of 100% recycled plastic.

Catch up now on all our previous Experience Intelligence reports.