LSN : Daily Signals : Stat: UK consumers increase spending in second-hand fashion boom

DesignStudio and Eucalyptus are pushing the boundaries of healthcare design

Compound by DesignStudio, Australia

Australia – Digital healthcare company Eucalyptus has partnered with DesignStudio to craft a brand identity for its latest men’s health initiative, Compound.

A data-driven performance optimisation and preventative health tool, the name Compound was chosen to reflect the impact of long-term consistent positive action on health and fitness.

DesignStudio also wanted to reflect the symbiosis of tradition and modernity that informs Compound’s values through the brand’s logo and typography, visually translating the initiative’s aspirations to revolutionise Australian men’s healthcare.

Other aspects of branding play on Compound’s clinical grade diagnosis system, using image treatments reminiscent of x-ray scans and futuristic, fluorescent tones. The branding also includes personal touches, such as 3D user headshots and user-created versions of the brand name in a nod to the individualised nature of the Compound experience.

For more of the latest global design futures, check out our Design topic on LS:N Global.

Strategic opportunity

Break free from perceived design norms in your industry and tailor your brand identity to visually communicate your values to consumers and foster strong brand loyalty and engagement

Dover Street Market’s new Paris branch embraces Beautiful Chaos

Dover Street Market designed by Rei Kawakubo, Paris, France

France – Dover Street Market (DSM) will open its eighth store in Paris on 24 May 2024. The retail space was designed to embody Beautiful Chaos – challenging conventional store layouts and encouraging exploration.

The new location occupies parts of the Hôtel de Coulanges, once home to Madame de Sevigné, a notable figure in 17th-century French literature. Conceived by creative duo Andrian Joffe and Rei Kawakubo, the store’s exterior bears no store window or visible branding, inviting passers-by to give in to curiosity to explore what lies behind the open doors. Spread across three levels, the retail space is also home to a Rose Bakery café and will host diverse cultural events, echoing DSM’s commitment to blending fashion with arts.

The newest Dover Street Market exemplifies a shift towards immersive, experience-driven retail environments that foster exploration and discovery. This approach aligns with broader trends in global placemaking, where spaces are designed to be multi-functional, culturally rich and community-focused.

Strategic opportunity

Create immersive, boundary-blurring retail environments that combine art, culture and commerce to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction, setting new standards for experiential shopping

Sweetgreen stock skyrockets 37% as new steak dishes added

Sweetgreen, US

US – The stock of salad chain Sweetgreen surged by 37% following impressive first-quarter earnings and the nationwide introduction of steak to its roster of ingredients in 2024. The fast-casual restaurant franchise’s growth strategies, including its Infinite Kitchens programme that uses robotic technology, have been praised by analysts.

JP Morgan analyst Rahul Krotthapalli wrote in a note to clients that the numbers ‘continue to inspire confidence in the momentum the brand has been building since late last year’. The company plans to open seven new Infinite Kitchens in 2024. Sweetgreen CEO Jonathan Neman also told clients that steak accounted for one in five dinners ordered during its test phase and could expand Sweetgreen’s customer base.

The addition of steak has raised environmental concerns, however, as beef production is a significant source of greenhouse gases. But Sweetgreen argues that pasture-raised cows offer environmental benefits such as enhanced land management and carbon sequestration.

In our Food & Drink Futures 2024–2025 Online Event on Tuesday 4 June 2024, our team of analysts will unpack the mounting challenges such as inflation, environmental considerations, health fads and misinformation that consumers and food and drink professionals are facing.

Strategic opportunity

Introduce high-demand, premium ingredients like steak or other protein options to attract new customer segments and increase average order value

Stat: UK consumers increase spending in second-hand fashion boom

thredUP, US

UK – Consumer spending on second-hand clothing and shoes surged to £2.4bn ($3bn, €2.8bn) in 2023, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable fashion. A recent study reveals that half of UK shoppers purchased pre-worn items, with second-hand apparel now constituting nearly a quarter (23%) of the average Briton’s wardrobe. This percentage rises to 34% among those aged 18–34.

The survey, conducted for the Westfield shopping centre group, highlights significant regional and demographic differences. On average, Britons bought three second-hand clothing items in 2023. Younger adults, aged 18–34, led the charge, with an average of 5.3 items, compared to just 1.7 items for those aged 55 and over. Londoners were particularly enthusiastic, purchasing an average of 6.6 second-hand pieces.

Financial savings emerged as a major driver, especially during the ongoing cost of living crisis. Second-hand shoppers spent an average of £91.60 ($116.35, €107) with expenditure rising to £120.40 ($152.95, €140.70) for young adults and £133.20 ($169.20, €155.65) for Londoners. Environmental concerns influenced 16% of second-hand shoppers, who viewed their purchases as a sustainable alternative to fast fashion – a topic we explore further in Resale Redux.

Strategic opportunity

As consumers become more comfortable shopping second-hand, think about how you can elevate the experience. Would you consider designing second-hand stores with a boutique-like atmosphere? This could create a high-end shopping experience, helping to destigmatise second-hand fashion