The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked immediate and lasting change on human behaviour. With over a fifth of the world's population having been in lockdown, a recession on the horizon, and brands under pressure to adapt, our aim is to help business prepare for the future. We've developed a framework of decision making to help you navigate these cultural and behavioural shifts. Get in touch to find the right solution for you.
Since the start of March 2020, we’ve been shifting our focus to analyze the surprising impact of the pandemic crisis, resulting in the production of the Pandemic Culture ‘Living Report’. Designed around a Pandemic Response Framework considering the five stages of a crisis response, we’ve been activating our network of academics, thought leaders, and cultural experts to widen our community’s understanding. We’re sharing the key learnings on our weekly webinar series, building up a living record of the biggest shifts from the past few months on our Library, and sparking debate with our LinkedIn Pandemic Culture Community.
The Canvas8 Library in an exclusive insights platform containing 26,000+ original research signals, reports and case studies. Our members get access to the latest insights in consumer behaviours and the research underpinning our Pandemic Culture series.
Lockdown access offers a free trial to our Library and a taster of life as a Canvas8 Member. This includes use of our daily updated COVID-19 section, access to our six unique macro behavioural shifts that have emerged from the pandemic and our weekly curated insight mailers direct from our analysts.
Canvas8 works at the intersection of commercial understanding, behavioural sciences and popular culture. For the latest insight into how the pandemic is impacting culture and the industry, explore the latest posts on our Keeping TABS blog.
Yolt relieves spending guilt by blaming 'lizard brains'
With boredom taking over as a dominant emotion amid ongoing lockdowns, people are spending money in an effort to feel better. Smart money app Yolt has launched a campaign rooted in behavioural science that blames unnecessary spending on people's 'lizard brains' to assuage their guilt.
NZ COVID-19 success increases trust in public servants
Kiwis have a lot to feel proud about following their successful response to the pandemic. As a result, levels of trust in the public sector are at an all-time high, pointing to a renewed faith in experts and an appreciation for people who help the country operate.
People tune into 'ambience rooms' to escape reality
For avid watchers of 'ambience rooms' on YouTube, relaxing in a Hogwarts library or inside a space station looking down on Earth are everyday experiences. The videos open windows into alternative realities for those feeling trapped by lockdowns, offering a sense of relaxation and escape.
Germans seek stability amid financial uncertainty
Uncertainty has been a major theme of 2020 and 2021, and it’s plaguing the minds of Germans as they worry about money and job stability. Given their lack of confidence in the country’s ability to recover from the pandemic, there’s space for brands to help provide a sense of stability and resilience.
Burger King potato giveaway supports French farmers
The pandemic has reshaped public perceptions of heroes, propelling often overlooked groups into the limelight and fostering a collective sense of responsibility. The Burger King franchise in France has adopted a strategy that cements its place as a hero by addressing local farmers’ concerns.
Pandemic-proof workspaces address community needs
Sweeping lockdowns have left people feeling lonely and in dire need of connection (both digital and in-person). Culturehouse has turned an unused outdoor space into a workspace pop-up, providing the local community with access to essential services like heating, lights, and even Wi-Fi.
PFA training helps parents support kids' mental health
Public Health England is offering free psychological training to carers and parents so that they can provide immediate support to children. With young people impacted by the pandemic and health services stretched, the scheme looks to put control into the hands of concerned families.
Hygienic grocery checkout hints at future of shopping
Design studio Special Projects has unveiled a grocery checkout concept that intelligently moves on screens, creating a clean 'button' space for each customer. With the pandemic prompting people to think more about cleanliness, brands would do well to reassure them with safety innovations.
Low-income Britons face biased 'poverty premiums'
A study has revealed that low-income groups with protected characteristics are more likely to be charged more for accessing financial services like loans and insurance. It highlights the need for financial institutions to overhaul products so they don’t discriminate.
Till gives payment flexibility to cash-strapped renters
Amid ongoing financial insecurity compounded by the pandemic, many are struggling to make ends meet and afford basic necessities like rent. Flexible rent payment app Till lets people create a payment schedule that works for their personal circumstances so they’re able to pay on time.
Resource Generation: HNWI Gen Y rethink charity
Founded in 1998 by two young women who were looking for a way to give back beyond traditional philanthropy channels, Resource Generation enables its Gen Yer and Zer members to use their wealth to address privilege and social inequalities to help create a better tomorrow.
Americans find comforting connections in video games
The popularity of video games reached new heights amid the pandemic, as housebound Americans found entertainment in virtual worlds. But they also found companionship via gaming, sometimes at the expense of IRL communication, creating room for brands to help gamers find balance.
