New Leisure Rules

Leisure and entertainment have always been crucial aspects of our lives, providing much-needed escape, connection, and betterment. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has completely changed the way we experience leisure and entertainment, bringing about a new set of challenges for businesses in this space. In this course, Trend Hunter's Chief Client Officer, Courtney Scharf, explores the changes and trends that have emerged in the leisure industry during this chaotic time.

The Enduring Drivers of Leisure

As we look back to pre-pandemic predictions, when the future of leisure was being predicted, we see how drastically things have changed. Fitness classes, solo travel, and in-person VR and AR experiences were expected to be the biggest trends of 2020, but these activities were deemed illegal at some point during the pandemic. Despite this, the psychological drivers of leisure, including betterment, connection, and escape, have remained unchanged.

The Changing Landscape of Leisure

The leisure industry has undergone significant changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has accelerated trends and shifted consumer behavior. Despite the challenges and uncertainty, there are enduring drivers of leisure, including betterment, connection, and escape, which can guide businesses to innovate and adapt.

Exploring Megatrends in Leisure

By focusing on the megatrends of Catalyzation, Tribalism, and Experience, businesses can tap into these drivers and offer unique, relevant, and engaging leisure experiences that meet the needs and wants of consumers in the post-pandemic world.

-Catalyzation: The pandemic has highlighted the importance of health and wellness, and businesses that can offer innovative solutions for physical and mental well-being will be poised for success.
-Tribalism: As people seek connection and community, businesses that can foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose will have a competitive advantage.
-Experience: With traditional leisure activities disrupted, there is a growing demand for new and immersive experiences that offer novelty, excitement, and adventure.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

It is crucial for businesses to stay agile and keep an eye on emerging trends in order to stay ahead of the competition and successfully navigate the changing landscape of leisure. By understanding the enduring drivers of leisure and the megatrends shaping the industry, businesses can create innovative and relevant leisure experiences that meet the needs of consumers in the post-pandemic world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has completely upended the leisure industry, creating new challenges and opportunities for businesses. By understanding the enduring drivers of leisure and the megatrends shaping the industry, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and offer innovative and engaging leisure experiences that meet the evolving needs and wants of consumers. For more insights into the changing landscape of leisure, check out Trend Hunter's free >2023 Trend Report.