A plant from the asparagus family will feature in your next cocktail
plus: clothes made from algae, sea moss for your face and a device that makes applying makeup easier
We apologise, we’ve been on a bit of a hiatus. But we are back now and we’re here to give you the scoop on what you’ll be drinking, wearing and putting on your face in 2023 and beyond.
Trends 📈
As the globe desperately seeks out more environmentally friendly manufacturing techniques, the use of Algae to produce low-impact fibres, threads and textile components is poised to become the next big thing for fashion. While it may be difficult to envision yourself dressed in algae for your next meeting, get used to it because it’s time for plastic based threads to step aside as bacteria-based clothing takes centre stage.
As the over-planting of agave for agave-based spirits like Tequila and Mezcal pose a huge environmental threat, experts are turning their attention towards Sotol - the lesser known earthy cousin. With a reputation of becoming one of Mexico’s more important exports, this spiny succulent that actually belongs to the asparagus family is all set to make an appearance in your next cocktail.
With antibacterial properties that help in balancing the skin’s microbiome and preventing acne, Sea Moss is ready to be the next big thing in skincare. Expect to see this superfood in everything from serums and creams to shampoos and conditioners owing to its ability to intensely moisturise while also reducing sebum production.
The Next Big Thing 🔮
Sotol - Agave’s prickly cousin.
As fears around the over-planting of agave and an impending price implosion loom closely, Sotol is positioned to make its mark as the next big spirit to weave into the cocktail scene.
Referring both to the plant itself and the distillate, Sotol comes from the distillation of the plant Dasylirion Wheeleri, fondly known as Desert Spoon. Originally grown throughout the US from its native Chihuahuan Desert in southern New Mexico and Arizona to northern West Texas, the history of this close relative of agave dates back 1000’s of years. But owing to the lasting impacts of prohibition, the Desert-Spoon spirit hasn’t received much of the attention it deserves, until now.
With vegetal and herbaceous characteristics, the taste of Sotol is usually characterised by the terroir of the land where it is planted. But depending on the type of barrel used for ageing, some Sotols can have slightly sweeter and more fruity flavours with hints of vanilla and dried cherries.
With companies like Cardenxe Sotol De La Sierra, Marfa Spirit Co, and Desert Door working hard to revive this traditional spirit and bring premium versions of the Mexican liqueur to the bar, Sotol is posing itself as a versatile choice for home-bartenders and professional mixologists alike.
And with musicians like Lenny Kravitz releasing his own brand of Sotol, Nocheluna Sotol, it’s only a matter of time before Sotal sees a surge in demand, especially given the fact that it is gluten-free, organic, sustainable and delicious to drink.
But why are distilleries turning to Sotol?
Owing to a shortage of agave in the late 2010’s younger agave plants were used in Tequila production which greatly affected the consistency and taste of many Tequilas. And as the growing demand of agave-based artisanal spirits reaches an all-time high, many farmers are turning to environmentally taxing production methods which are straining the market and threatening the survival of agave, paving a clear path for its dense, poky, close relative. And with Sotol’s inevitable rising popularity, many experts believe that it will ultimately overtake Mezcal and Tequila.
What can we expect from this?
On the flip side, funnily enough, some experts believe that the growing demand for Tequila and Mezcal might be met in part by Sotol. From 2021 to 2026, the artisanal agave-based spirits is projected to expand at a CAGR of 7% in volume. But as demand rises, so does price, this will inevitably force farmers to harvest immature agave’s, cutting off a vital source of food for the world’s bat population which in turn will lead to an imbalance in the food chain.
But Sotol could help fix some of these issues and spirits manufacturers are beginning to see Sotol as a sustainable solution that can help farmers and meet the anticipated demand for agave-based spirits. While also simultaneously carving out a whole new category for itself to rival spirits like Tequila and Mezcal on the shelves.
Next in Innovation 💡
Developed by L’Oreal scientists and engineers, L’Oréal’s smart beauty applicator, HAPTA is the world’s first handheld makeup applicator for those with restricted hand and arm movement. As several individuals who have impaired motor functions find it difficult to perform routine tasks like putting on makeup, the system’s 360 degree rotation and 180 degree flexion makes it possible to achieve precision during application.
This first of its kind innovation is a collaboration between California based health-tech firm Verily and L’Oreal and has been developed through an adaptation of Verily’s stabilising technology in its flatware and utensils. The technology that uses multiple sensors and machine learning that was originally used for a spoon for people who have mobility and motor skills challenges to be able to feed themselves.
In case you missed these 👀
We can help you build…
The Next Big Thing 🚀
Like our content and want to apply this to your business? We can tailor make trend reports and consulting reports to suit your new or existing business needs.
Save yourself, months of researching, testing and time, and get access to our trend insights months before they happen.
Reach out now for a free consultation and find out how we can help you build the next big thing in your business.
If you liked this email from The Foresight Forum, why not share it?
Spread the news and help us grow…
We want to hear from you!
Reply to this email to tell us what you’d like to read more about.