Connecting the Dots 2026: 5 Marketing Trends You Might Be Missing
The Connecting the dots 2026 report from GWI highlights critical, non-obvious marketing trends that are often overlooked in standard advertising plans. Drawing from a wealth of research, this report provides deep insights into fast-changing audiences and shifting consumer habits to help you sharpen your 2026 strategy.
This comprehensive study explores five key areas shaping the future of marketing:
- AI and Insights: While many advertisers and marketers use AI professionally, relying on web-scraped data leads to generic, stereotypical results that lack depth.
- The Intent-Behavior Gap: Consumers are increasingly contradictory, creating a significant opportunity for brands that can bridge the gap between expressed intent and actual buying behavior.
- Social Media Dominance: Social media remains the dominant media form, with people spending massive amounts of time on social platforms and short videos each week.
- World Cup Fandom: The audience for the upcoming tournament is rewriting the rules of engagement, with many fans identifying as avid gamers who view the event as a social ecosystem.
- Defining Gen Alpha: As the oldest Alphas reach their teen years, it is essential to recognize them as a distinct generation rather than a simple continuation of Gen Z.
Download the full report to access the data-driven truth behind these trends and discover the opportunities your competitors might be missing.
