March 2025
Trend hacking is the art of identifying short-lived but powerful trends and using them to drive rapid growth. Companies that successfully leverage trends often experience explosive engagement, virality, and revenue boosts. Here, we examine a few case studies of brands that capitalized on fleeting trends to their advantage.
In 2016, Niantic launched Pokémon GO, an augmented reality (AR) mobile game that became an instant sensation. The game took advantage of the growing interest in AR technology, nostalgia for the Pokémon franchise, and the rise of social gaming. Within days of its release, millions of players worldwide were exploring real-world locations to capture virtual Pokémon.
Businesses quickly seized the opportunity by becoming PokéStops or gyms, attracting foot traffic to their locations. McDonald's in Japan even partnered with Niantic to turn over 3,000 restaurants into in-game locations, increasing store visits. Pokémon GO's initial trend faded over time, but the game's impact demonstrated how brands could harness technology-driven fads for rapid success.
The rise of fidget spinners in 2017 was an example of a product exploding in popularity overnight. Originally designed as a focus aid, fidget spinners became a must-have toy, with millions of units sold worldwide. Influencers and social media platforms fueled the craze, leading to skyrocketing sales.
Retailers like Walmart and Target jumped on the trend by stocking large quantities, while online stores saw massive traffic spikes. However, as with most trends, the demand for fidget spinners faded quickly. Still, companies that acted fast were able to generate substantial profits before the market became oversaturated.
Netflix’s Squid Game took the world by storm in 2021, becoming one of the most-watched series on the platform. Businesses capitalized on the show's popularity by launching Squid Game-themed products, including costumes, games, and merchandise. E-commerce platforms saw a surge in sales of items like the signature green tracksuits and Dalgona candy kits.
Brands that quickly adapted to the trend saw immense profits, while those that hesitated missed the wave. This case illustrated the importance of speed and adaptability in leveraging cultural trends.
Trend hacking is all about recognizing opportunities and acting swiftly. While trends can be short-lived, the brands that embrace them at the right time can achieve substantial success. The key is to monitor emerging trends, understand their potential impact, and integrate them into marketing and product strategies before they fade.
