Demographics

On today’s podcast episode, we discuss how much time Gen Z are actually spending on their smartphones, the less discussed places Millennials are spending their social media time, and more. Join host Marcus Johnson, along with analyst Paola Flores-Marquez and vice president of research Jennifer Pearson.

We expect social commerce sales in the US to reach $101.38 billion this year, driven by existing buyers increasing their spending. While social commerce plays a smaller role in holiday shopping, it's popular among Gen Z, who are more likely to make purchases influenced by creators. TikTok and Facebook are the top platforms, with apparel brands poised to benefit the most.

Texas claims TikTok violated privacy laws by illegally selling minors’ data, further intensifying scrutiny on the platform as it faces a looming ban in the US.

McDonald’s targets Gen Zers with limited-time Chicken Big Mac offering: The QSR is supporting the launch with a campaign that highlights dupe culture, livestreaming, and other generational touchstones.

Sephora-related content resonated best with Gen Z consumers, but legacy brands like Neutrogena struggled to maintain relevance. Cultural moments like Pride and back-to-school drove Q3 UGC, while video tutorials on platforms like TikTok provide more effective ways for brands to connect with Gen Z. Here are four insights into how beauty brand-related, UGC performed among Gen Z consumers in Q3, according to research firm dcdx’s Gen Z's Top 50 Beauty Brands Report Q3 2024.

Platforms must brace for regulation of algorithmic content: EU regulators are widening their net, which could restrict advertisers’ ability to target teens.

Roblox could kick down the door to an in-game advertising boom: The gaming and metaverse platform is deepening ties to the ad industry and hiring for ad tech roles.

On today’s podcast episode, we discuss if folks will start consuming news on WhatsApp, how people get their news on digital channels, and some interesting generational gaps that exist regarding social media news consumption. Join host Marcus Johnson, along with director of reports editing Rahul Chadha and vice president of media, content, and strategy Henry Powderly for the conversation.

Marketers should play to social media’s positive traits: Gen Z adults have mixed feelings about social media use that can inform marketing strategies.

By adding translation tools in new markets, Reddit seeks to drive growth and keep momentum post-IPO.

Kay Jewelers refreshes brand, invests in store upgrades to maximize “Zillennial” appeal: The retailer hopes that more personalized experiences, along with a wider selection of fashion jewelry, will win over younger audiences.

In part two of this two-part podcast episode, we discuss why China and ByteDance might blink and sell TikTok to a US company, why a law around children's online safety will get passed, and what will happen if Dish Network and DirecTV merge. Tune in to the discussion with host Marcus Johnson, and analysts Ross Benes, Evelyn Mitchell, and Max Willens.

Coca-Cola’s latest effort to win over Gen Z consumers falls flat: The company discontinued its Spiced flavor—which isn’t spicy—after just six months due to lackluster sales.

Gen Z is twice as likely as the overall population to discover products on social media (51.5% versus 25.5%, per our Path to Purchase research), but physical stores are their top choice for actually making a purchase.

TikTok Shop is Gen Z’s new favorite gifting destination: More than half plan to make a purchase on the platform this holiday season, lured by the prospect of a good deal.

The Kids Online Safety Act advances in a contentious vote: The regulation would force social media companies to restrict certain content for minors, but much is up for debate.

Social media usage is increasing for all generations, but most quickly for Gen Z. This year, US Gen Z social media usage will grow 7.7% versus 1.8% for the general population’s, according to our May 2024 forecast.

MrBeast’s season of scandal dampens Prime Video’s game show plans: A class action lawsuit alleges sexual harassment on the set of a game show aimed at young audiences.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss what people get wrong about Gen Z’s path-to-purchase, their relationship with stores, and how they differ from millennials. Listen to the conversation with our analyst Sara Lebow as she hosts analysts Blake Droesch and Paola Flores-Marquez.