As 2017 is now in full swing, we are always on the look out for up and coming trends to inspire us. Here is a snapshot of some of what London has to offer…
Immersive Experiences
Immersive experiences have been around for a while, however transforming concepts into real life experiences for consumers doesn’t appear to be losing momentum. This has recently taken off in a big way in theatre and dining experiences, making consumers feel that they are part of the experience.
Immersive group Gingerline are paving the way for interactive dining experiences, stimulating consumer senses in secret locations around London. Gingerline take guests on a journey into different worlds, involving themed food to please the taste buds. Other immersive experiences can be seen in art galleries such as Pace London, the Secret Cinema and Bompas & Parr.
Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality, more commonly known as VR, saw great advances in 2016 and we are very excited to see what it brings this year! More recent VR experiences have been incorporating headphones to allow for a greater sensual experience, which can provide a real wow factor.
In 2016, Story hosted the Waitrose Drinks Festival, which bought together Waitrose’s top food and drink suppliers. During the two-day event, Verve Cliquot took visitors on a VR learning experience. As guests peddled on the bike, they were transported on a journey through the vineyards to learn about the Verve Cliquot brand, which guests loved!
Hygge (n)
This Winter, we are focusing our efforts on a more healthier and hygge lifestyle…The Danish way of living that is proving to be 2017’s hottest new trend.
In essence; Hygge means “coziness”, “warmth” and “comfort” – think snuggling down for a movie night or dinner party with friends, no phone or Social Media to distract us from our conversations. It is about re-establishing relationships, illuminating your soul and re-connecting with the more important things in life.
This lifestyle is particular popular amongst the Danish, most known at Christmas time but seen in the Summer months with picnics in the park, barbeques with friends, outdoor concerts, street festivals and bike rides.
So put down your mobile phones because it looks like hygge is here to stay!
Being Socially Conscious
In today’s climate companies are always looking for things that can not only entertain/treat staff but also help CSR by giving back to society. Below are just three initiatives which are helping make the events world a more socially conscious industry:
Brigade – Housed in a historic fire station in Southwark this event venue/restaurant serve British inspired food with a twist, offering a chef trainee programme to homeless people, giving them the helping hand they need to get them back into employment. Some of their previous trainees have gone on to become chefs at Michelin starred restaurants.
Harry Spectors – is a socially conscious chocolate maker, creating 100s of jobs for young people with autism in the UK by providing them with employment and training to produce award-winning chocolates. Furthermore for every £1 of profit made at Harry Specters, 60p is set aside for furthering the social aims of the business, providing social activities for their invaluable employees as well as opportunities for their personal development.
Toast – is a new London brewer that has created beer made with fresh, surplus bread that would otherwise be wasted. And if this wasn’t enough, all of their profits go to Feedback, an environmental charity campaigning to end food waste. So as they put it ‘By enjoying Toast, not only are you rescuing bread but you’re helping to make our food system work for people and the planet.’
