TFO Canada Picks for Product Trends to Observe for 2018
As we celebrate the end of another successful year here at TFO Canada, we would like to take a moment to share the top trends we are observing in the Canadian marketplace for 2018. At TFO Canada we believe that the key to a successful sourcing partnership is to match you virtually and in reality, with suppliers which have offers to match current and future Canadian consumer demand. We encourage you to visit our supplier database to find suppliers that offer products for the following trends:Middle Eastern flavours. As one of the fastest growing immigrant population in Canada, people from the middle east bring with them their food traditions and a growing demand for those same products in their new country. Products like hummus, falafel, za’atar, halloumi, harissa and oriental vegetables and fruits like eggplants, okra, bitter gourd and even green gourd are experiencing a rapid demand growth.
Plant based foods. As the number of people choosing vegetarian and vegan diets continues to grow, so does their demand for plant based products. Plant based proteins like beans, soy and nuts will continue to experience growing market demand, as well as vegetarian and vegan versions of mainstream products like ice-cream, yogurts and meat alternatives[1].
Snacking for a new generation. As millennials become the largest generation making everyday purchases, they demand food that matches their unique state. This demographic shift is driving the demand for unique snacks like ethnic flavours, no sugar added products, carbonated flavoured drinks, drinks carbonated through fermentation like kombucha, unique and healthier chips like cassava, plaints, brussels sprouts and puffed quinoa, and ready to drink teas and coffee[2].
Technologically Advanced Fabrics. Climate control fabrics for athletic wear are experiencing a strong market demand. Athletic wear that can also be used as casual clothing (athleisure), and lets the body breath when it is hot, but keeps you warm if the temperature suddenly drops is in high demand from ever more time constrained consumers. These technologically advanced fabrics are becoming more common and the demand is no longer being driven just by women, but also children and men[3].
Sustainability. Consumers care about the environment and about the impact their consumption has on the planet. So, a trend we continue to see is sustainable textiles, sustainable food and sustainable packaging. Either through using less water in the manufacturing process, using recycled materials, using sustainable fabrics like bamboo and jute, or having recyclable materials, these are all sustainable choices more consumers want to see companies to be offering.
Ethnic Fabrics and Patterns. As with the food trend, consumers are tired of the same old things, and have become more experimental when it comes to their purchases. Patterns that call back to India, Nigeria, and the Caribbean bring color to Canadian houses and people, while also reminding them of places they have been, or places they come from. Fabrics like jute, raffia, silk and wool bring new textures and possibilities to the everyday[4].
Cosmetics that Do Good. As in the food aisle, consumers in the cosmetics aisle want to make sure that they are buying cosmetics that do good for the environment and for the communities in which the product is made. Products with a message of leaving the world a better place, either through safe environmental practices or higher employment in the communities (especially of women), is something that resonates with Canadian consumers and can give your product an edge[5].
For Men Too. There is a growing trend where men are spending more on grooming and paying more attention on what kind of products they buy for their skin. Products like beard oil, cover up for men, creams design for men’s skin and even beauty lines designed for men of color (like Bevel) are growing in demand[6]. Cosmetics is no longer only a women’s world.
Games Everywhere. There is a resurgence of gaming companies based in Montreal and Toronto. More and more games that are sold all around the world are made by studios based in these two Canadian cities. But as the demand increases these companies are having a hard time finding all the qualified employees they need. We foresee a growing trend where Canadian game studios look abroad to hire people in the ICT services community from around the world, especially places like India, Costa Rica, Peru, Nigeria, and China.
And Beyond. Expertise in blockchain, Artificial Intelligence foundations, Internet of Things, Virtual Reality and cloud management will continue to be in high demand. And as Canadian firms look for a competitive edge in that space they will look beyond Canada to hire the best firms, to help them position themselves above the rest.
In 2018 stay tuned to your e-mailbox for upcoming trade missions, buyer’s incentive programs to attend tradeshows abroad and search our supplier database for suppliers with products matching the trends driving the Canadian marketplace.[vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner]
[1] Whole Foods Market Reveals Top Food Trends for 2018
[2] Ready to drink – coffee’s next frontier
[3] Apparel Textile Sourcing Canada Show to provide glimpse into global design and fashion trends for 2018 and beyond
[4] Artisan Hub
[5] Mintel announces four global beauty and personal care trends for 2018, Campaign Capital
[6] The 5 top trends for the cosmetic market 2017-2018, Trend #5
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