Food&Drink Business Magazine: Inovation in the Age of Consumer Complexity

Research Team

Jed Simpfendorfer

Overview

This month in Food & Drink Business magazine, we explored how innovation is evolving in response to rising consumer complexity.

At a recent panel hosted by the Australian Marketing Institute and T garage, industry leaders shared insights on navigating the shifting landscape of consumer goods.

Key Takeaways:

• Innovation now starts with understanding the consumption occasion – Mapping need states to product moments creates new opportunities.
• AI is a powerful enabler – When used well, it speeds up development, frees up teams for creative thinking, and reduces risk.
• Intuition still matters – Human insight, empathy, and strategic boldness remain essential for long-term success.
• Structured chaos fuels creativity – Innovation thrives in environments where failure is accepted and new ways of thinking are encouraged.
• Smaller wins, faster growth – Brands that test, learn and adapt quickly are the ones gaining traction in a crowded market.

To lead in 2025, brands must master both the art of agility and the science of smart innovation.

Read the full article in this month’s Food&Drink Business Magazine Edition.