Every year brings new trends or evolutions of old ones. It makes it a really exciting time for businesses. They need to be on their toes to ensure they present their brands effectively. We want to have a closer look at some of the main things to think about in 2026 here. Then, if you would like to use foiling services to enhance your brand, you can trust us.
AI
The first and arguably most important thing to consider is AI. It will continue to have a massive impact on consumer behaviour in 2026. Businesses need to think carefully about what it will mean for their brands.
One of the most critical things is the rise of AI agents. They are increasingly responsible for product recommendations and filtering. More and more people are trusting them, including asking their phones to suggest products for a variety of needs. So, it is essential to think about what they are looking for. In many cases AI agents will suggest products from credible, authoritative businesses. If you want to be successful, you need to ensure this is how you present your brand. Notably, make sure you are consistent on different channels, including your website and social media.
Interestingly though, the rise of AI is actually putting into perspective how important the human element still is. We want things that look and feel real. In fact, there has been a backlash against numerous brands that have used AI marketing content. It’s important to think about this. Plus, it gives rise to trends like personal branding and consumers wanting to see the faces behind what they are purchasing.
Does it feel alive?
Potentially leading on from the AI boom, another major trend is consumers want to see brands that are alive. This includes more colour, texture, depth, movement, and feelings. Foiling services are an excellent option here because of how they react to light. You can even choose foils with textures for the tactile element.
The key thing is that we’re increasingly living in a digital world. As a result, we’re used to things on smooth, flat screens. So, we want the products we actually touch to feel real and provide a sensory experience. It is essential to think about this, including for packaging and physical marketing materials.
Another thing to note is that imperfections are likely to become a crucial design choice. Many consumers are bored of perfection. It feels more human, alive and real when something isn’t perfect. So, things like DIY aesthetics are likely to be popular.
Finally, celebrating a brand’s own personal voice is vital. In a world where AI can make everything sound the same, unique voices and insights can stand out. Real stories are powerful here.
Ask us about foiling services
Businesses have a lot to think about if they want to be successful in 2026 and beyond. Everything should have meaning and work to promote the brand effectively. Even small choices can make a huge difference, such as using foils effectively, so you need to think carefully. It’s vital to get a balance between using tech like AI and retaining the human elements.
If you want to look at using foiling services to enhance your brand, we’d be happy to advise you. We’re one of the best specialists in the UK and know how to use foil to make a great impression on various audiences. Speak to us today to learn more about different foils and applications for them.