• Saturday, July 27, 2024
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BusinessDay

Consumers are rethinking priorities in 2014’

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As the global automotive market gets more sophisticated day by day, there are indications that consumers are likely to re-evaluate their relationships with technology in 2014, balancing the need to be constantly plugged in with a new appreciation for spending quality time off-line, reveals Ford Motor Company’s second annual trend report.

The top global trend for 2014, Innovation’s Quiet Riot, explores whether people will continue trying to keep up with an always-on society and experience a fear of missing out, or begin to find joy in moments free of digital distraction

‘Looking Further with Ford 2014’ uncovers people’s desire to have downtime to reflect on what matters most friends, family and community. This evokes nostalgia as consumers remember the comfort and character associated with the way things were.

“There is no escaping the impact both positive and negative of the rapid pace of technology. What is more fascinating to watch in 2014 is how a culture of reflection is emerging,” said Sheryl Connelly, Ford global trend and futuring manager.

“We are seeing a consumer culture that is increasingly mindful of the need to nurture society’s valuable and irreplaceable resources. Understanding our customers and their evolving needs is key to Ford’s accelerated growth plan and new vehicle development,” said Connelly.

He maintained those consumer insights and trends help guide Ford’s product strategies and the development of vehicles that not only exceed customer expectations, but also connect with the rapidly changing landscape of our society.”