As we step into 2026, global markets face a complex landscape shaped by resilient but restrained growth, evolving trade dynamics, cost volatility, widening consumer market polarisation and the emerging influence of Generation Alpha. The new Trump tariffs, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and persistent economic uncertainty will continue to shape business decisions worldwide. The big question is what does this mean for luxury and fashion in the months ahead?

Listen to our experts, Fflur Roberts (Gloabal Insight Manager: Luxury Goods) and Marguerite LeRolland (Global Insight Manager: Fashion) discuss the key trends in luxury and fashion in 2026, and strategies to build growth and resilience.

Botanical ingredients continue to play a central role in product formulation and innovation as consumers increasingly recognise the natural benefits associated with plant-based extracts and healthier positioning. However, it is not enough to track which ingredients are rising in popularity from the supply side; understanding which botanicals are used at the product level and in which countries and categories they appear provides a clearer view of what trends are here to stay.

We are excited to present Euromonitor's trending topics. Listen to our thought leaders discuss five short-term trends shaping global industries in 2025–26: market volatility, beyond affordability, healthy longevity, intentional consumption and next-gen online storefronts. Understanding them is critical for resilience and growth in today’s volatile environment.

The global FMCG outlook looks to be at an inflection point, with rising input costs, demographic shifts, and the advent of GLP-1 agonists signalling a plateau in global food and beverage consumption. Just as manufacturers are grappling with how to succeed in this shifting landscape, the need for foodservice operators to pivot to new consumer demands is essential. Menus cannot only meet the bare minimum proposition of affordability so how can owners creatively accommodate the nutritional needs of an increasingly wellness-driven populace?

Healthy Longevity is one of Euromonitor International’s five new Trending Topics for the year ahead. We have identified these topics as the most crucial cross-industry trends that businesses need to prioritise to remain competitive.

Snacking has long been associated with indulgence – a moment to treat yourself with a burst of flavour and texture. Today, rising health consciousness and closer attention to ingredients and functionality are reshaping how consumers perceive snacks and what they expect from them.

We are excited to present Euromonitor's trending topics. Listen to our thought leaders discuss five short-term trends shaping global industries in 2025–26: market volatility, beyond affordability, healthy longevity, intentional consumption and next-gen online storefronts. Understanding them is critical for resilience and growth in today’s volatile environment.

Intentional consumption is one of Euromonitor International’s five new Trending Topics for the year ahead. We have identified these topics as the most crucial cross-industry trends that businesses need to prioritise to remain competitive.

Luxury is transforming. No longer defined solely by material possessions, it is increasingly shaped by experiences, wellness, and lifestyle integration.

What are trending topics? Read about the five you should prioritise to remain competitive in this report.

Euromonitor presents five crucial trending topics across industries that businesses must understand to thrive in today's volatile environment. These topics include Market volatility, Beyond affordability, Healthy longevity, Intentional consumption, and Next-gen online storefront. By analysing these trends, companies can identify opportunities for growth and adapt their strategies accordingly. The insights provided aim to help businesses stay relevant and profitable in a rapidly changing landscape.

The first year of President Trump’s second term has been marked by a series of policy shocks signalling an era of heightened uncertainty for the global economy. Euromonitor International identified six pillars of Trump’s policies during his first year, three of which have dominated: Tariffs, Migration and (De)Regulation. Industries have faced higher costs, supply chain disruptions and changing consumer demands.

Listen to our experts, Fflur Roberts (Gloabal Insight Manager: Luxury Goods) and Marguerite LeRolland (Global Insight Manager: Fashion) discuss the key trends in luxury and fashion in 2026, and strategies to build growth and resilience.

The first year of President Trump’s second term has been marked by a series of policy shocks signalling an era of heightened uncertainty for the global economy. Euromonitor International identified six pillars of Trump’s policies during his first year, three of which have dominated: Tariffs, Migration and (De)Regulation. Industries have faced higher costs, supply chain disruptions, trade uncertainty and changing consumer demands.

As 2026 unfolds, global business faces a landscape marked by resilient but restrained growth, shifting trade dynamics, persistent cost pressures, widening consumer divides, and the rising influence of Generation Alpha. Success will depend on agility, authenticity and a nuanced understanding of rapidly fragmenting markets.

The first year of Trump’s presidency was marked by significant uncertainty over tariffs, whilst the second year begins with the emergence of new geopolitical risks following the US capture of Venezuela’s head of state. This development introduces heightened uncertainty that extends beyond Venezuela, with implications across multiple regions. While global businesses face shifting geopolitical dynamics, the potential increased oil supply over the long term could help reduce energy price pressures.

US-China trade war and escalating tensions between China and Taiwan require companies to rethink strategies for sourcing, production and market access in China. Rising tariffs drive up costs and uncertainty, yet China remains a vital production hub. Its large population, expanding middle class and growing cities with solid incomes continue to make it an attractive market for final sales.

Digital commerce is undergoing a seismic shift as generative AI-powered search and emerging “agentic” commerce become new gateways between consumers and brands.

We are excited to present Euromonitor's trending topics. Listen to our thought leaders discuss five short-term trends shaping global industries in 2025–26: market volatility, beyond affordability, healthy longevity, intentional consumption and next-gen online storefronts. Understanding them is critical for resilience and growth in today’s volatile environment.

The retail industry is at an inflection point. Consumers are looking for reliable product information through product labels and digital platforms, while new technologies – especially generative AI and conversational search – are reshaping product discovery and engagement.

During 17-19 September, US-based retail events organiser Shoptalk held its annual Shoptalk Fall conference in Chicago. Industry leaders gathered for keynotes, panels and interactive sessions exploring themes ranging from agentic AI to retail media to the impact of the Trump administration’s new tariff regime. Euromonitor International was in attendance and is pleased to share some of the most important takeaways.

Next-Gen Online Storefront is one of Euromonitor International’s five new Trending Topics for the year ahead. We have identified these topics as the most crucial cross-industry trends that businesses need to prioritise to remain competitive.

What are trending topics? Read about the five you should prioritise to remain competitive in this report.