Another decade over, a new one just begun. And what a decade it was…
As we saw in 2010, the UK was still feeling the effects of the second-worst economic downturn in history.
The Great Recession had far reaching consequences, triggering political shockwaves that look destined to ripple on through the 2020s.
But it also provided fertile ground for innovation…
An unstable job market gave rise to the gig economy, with the likes of Deliveroo, Uber, and Upwork capitalising on the growing demand for flexible work, or, some would say, exploiting those in precarious financial situations.
A new generation of disruptive startups emerged to challenge the supremacy of big businesses that, for too long, had not worked in the interests of consumers.
And, as our shopping habits moved increasingly online, we witnessed the slow decline of the high street.
While we can’t predict exactly what the next decade has in store for businesses, we’ve conducted extensive research and quizzed leading industry experts to bring you what we think will be the defining business trends of 2020.
One thing’s for certain, whether it’s non-alcoholic fun, urban farming, eco-beauty, or CBD, the twin shadows of sustainability and Brexit loom large. That’s why, for the first time, we’ve assessed the extent to which each idea can be considered sustainable and Brexit-proof.
And so to you a happy New Year, let’s hope it’s a good one, when you can finally start that business idea.
1. Non-alcoholic fun
Are you ditching the booze for January? A growing number of us are giving up for even longer, and sometimes all together. Around 47% of British drinkers have reduced their consumption in the last year.
As our drink-obsessed nation becomes increasingly abstinent, the market for alcohol-free drinks and experiences that don’t (necessarily) involve drinking has grown significantly.
2. Urban farming
Even as urbanisation eats up available land for agriculture, the number of people that needs feeding in the UK continues to grow.
But there is a solution: Urban farming.
Underground, overground, indoors, or even vertical, an increasing number of people are finding ingenious ways to grow food in limited urban spaces, in the interests of self-sufficiency, or even as a commercial enterprise.
Could you start your own commercial urban farm? Or supply urban farms?
Read more at https://startups.co.uk/business-ideas-2020/
