The Next Big Thing mission

Consumer behaviour is changing at ever-increasing rates. Today's customer is tomorrow's churn. Competitive advantage is harder to obtain – and maintain. To survive, brands must continually adapt products and strategies well ahead of the competition.

We can help by offering early warning of future market trends. We use consumer research and systematic analysis of change patterns and cultural dynamics, to help you identify and target new consumer markets. Our tailored trend interpretation provides actionable, innovative business solutions for today – and tomorrow.

The Next Big Thing background

Founder William Higham is one of Britain's leading consumer trend authorities: an acknowledged expert in interpreting research and skilled predictor of consumer change His expertise comes from 20 years' consumer experience. He spearheaded press and marketing strategies at Sony, Virgin and Universal in 1990s. After consulting for media and fashion brands, his passion for cultural and consumer trends led him to launch Next Big Thing in 2002. He has written the first practical guide to trendforecasting 'The Next Big Thing' (Kogan Page, 2009).

The Next Big Thing methodology

We provide tailored, full-service consumer trend research solutions. We run qualitative and quantitative campaigns. We organise and moderate innovative trend workshops. We analyse new consumer trends and interpret existing research, to provide strategic sector- or brand-specific recommendations.

We offer a unique three-step research process. We identify consumer change patterns via primary and secondary research. We overlay trend drivers and predict trend impact and growth. We work with clients to implement trend-based change strategies.

The Next Big Thing profile

Founder William Higham is regularly first port of call for Media outlets on all aspects of consumer change: from Tweens to Greys, leisure pursuits to attitudes to health. He is also a popular speaker at both public and internal conferences.

Media credits range from The Times and The Economist to The News Of The World, Campaign to Waitrose Food Illustrated, Radio 4's Todayand PM shows to Radio 5 Live, Eve to The Independent - and Cosmopolitan to Penthouse.