The Zeitgeist: May 24, 2024

Today’s Edition: Pride, Microfeminism, and Black Twitter

Good morning! Get ready for a whirlwind of updates that feel like a flashback to 2020! This week, companies are rethinking their Pride plans amidst the hotly contested 2024 presidential election. In the brand arena, Peloton, Chips Ahoy!, and Kraft Singles are stepping up their game to win over Gen Z with fresh, innovative branding. Meanwhile, baby Kate, dubbed the Four Seasons Baby, is this week’s wholesome TikTok viral sensation.

In other news, inflation continues to pinch many Americans' wallets, making everyday essentials like groceries harder to afford. On the geopolitical front, Norway, Spain, and Ireland formally recognized the Palestinian state, adding layers to the already complex international landscape.

Campaigns

Earned-friendly campaigns & clever moments

Also, Cheez-It’s Retro Diner, E.l.f.’s ‘Lip Oil Change’ at the Indy 500, Grubhub and Hawaiian Tropic’s free sunscreen for MDW, and Liquid Death’s fighter jet giveaway.

Culture 

Snackable bites of consumer culture

Corporate

Commerce

Shopper society snapshot

Connections

Feed intelligence

Media Moves:

  • Mike Shepard of Bloomberg has been named senior editor for technology and strategic industries.

  • Emily Pandise, formerly of NBC News, has joined CBS News as a producer for consumer, business, and technology news.

  • David Stringer has been named the managing editor for ESG and climate coverage at Bloomberg News.

  • Vera Titunik, formerly of Headway, has joined The New York Times Business desk and will oversee stories for Sunday Business.

  • Patrick Cooley, formerly of The Messenger, has joined Industry Drive to cover the payments industry.

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Also... When Did Teen Boys Get a Nose for $300 Cologne? The New York Times explores Gen Z’s infatuation with luxury fragrances.

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