Changing lifestyles We are about to witness an explosion of the range of gadgets available, most of which will not be tied to a particular network. Shops that stock a wide range without the constraints of a single network operator will have a strong advantage. If there are any brand-specific shops left in this sector, they are more likely to be run by the manufacturers than network operators. These shops are more to do with lifestyle and tribalism than the need for gadgets. The other growth areas also reflect changing lifestyles.
Young people have much more money to spend and the video games market is growing fast.
As machines become ever more powerful and games continue to improve, this trend will continue. The growth of coffee bars, internet cafes, and store restaurants reflects the growing need for the so-called third place. Household size continues to fall, and people increasingly live apart, while the scope for socialising at work is decreasing. Many people telework, and politically correct workplace regulation often makes socialising at work into a career risk. Consequently, there is a growing demand for places to meet and socialise other than the home or office.