Culture Forward: Decoding Consumer Trends & Brand Impact
Where culture meets commerce: analyzing the brands shaping our lives.
About This Column
Michael Bennett’s ‘Culture Forward’ dives deep into the evolving intersection of consumer behavior, brand strategy, and cultural moments. Each week, Bennett unpacks the ‘why’ behind the latest trends in retail, fashion, beauty, and experiential marketing – going beyond surface-level reporting to illuminate the broader societal shifts driving consumer choices. The column examines how brands are responding to – and sometimes shaping – these changes, with a particular focus on Gen Z and Millennial audiences. ‘Culture Forward’ isn't just about what people are buying, but why – offering readers a unique perspective on the forces that are redefining modern culture and impacting brand success. Bennett’s analysis provides actionable insights for industry professionals seeking to understand and navigate the ever-changing consumer landscape.
Recent Articles
Houston Food Bank Gets $75K Boost as SNAP Cuts Fuel Demand
Beyond the Shutdown: How Goodwill NYNJ is Filling the SNAP Gap & Supporting its Workers
Beyond the Checkbook: Kimley-Horn Links Kindness to Community Impact – And Results
Newark Steps Up as SNAP Suspension Leaves Thousands Facing Hunger
Beyond Job Training: Goodwill Tackles Food Insecurity in Eastern North Carolina
Rhode Island Bank Matches Donations to Fight Rising Hunger – and Celebrate 225 Years
Beyond the Pantry: Collin County Social Services Consolidation Aims for Systemic Change
NYC’s Food Safety Net Frays: Local Partnership Steps In As SNAP Cuts Bite
Beyond Food Banks: Insurer's $1.1M Grant Targets Root Causes of Hunger in Mass.
Beyond Donations: Investment Firm Embraces Hands-On Support for Individuals with Disabilities
Utah Food Bank Partners with USANA to Fight Rising Hunger Amid Benefit Cuts
Mobile Pantries Tackle Rising Food Insecurity in North Texas Communities
Beyond the Checkout: Natural Grocers’ Holiday Campaign Fuels Community Resilience Amid Rising Needs
Beyond the Churrasco: Texas de Brazil's Philanthropy & the Rise of Purpose-Driven Dining
Dallas Gala Blends Luxury & Giving: Is 'Experiential Philanthropy' the Future?
Fashion with a Heart: How a Pop-Up is Extending a Legacy of Hope for Cystic Fibrosis
Beyond the Bottom Line: Freedom Mortgage's 14-Year Commitment to Community Giving