2021 PREDICTIONS

After a year like 2020, it’s no surprise we saw massive changes in the wellness, retail, food + beverage, and urban planning worlds. 2021 is going to be no different. We expect to see: 

Customers looking for simple, effective products for specific needs and ailments

New Yorkers are going to be looking for spaces that are geared towards pedestrians. As our Executive Director Jeffrey LeFrancois said, “Good public space is good for business.”

Slimmed-down menus will be the new norm. Expect to see more seasonal menus and specials from restaurants.

Influencers have already started highlighting bars and restaurants that are going above and beyond to keep their customers safe and protected with outdoor heating systems, contactless ordering options, and more. This will continue in the new year.

We asked businesses in Meatpacking what their predictions will be for 2021. Read on to see what will be trending in wellness, hospitality, urban planning, and more below.

Beauty and wellness from Caudalie’s Régine Berthelot, Director of Spa Education

What is one skincare product that people won’t be able to live without next year?  
As we will be wearing face masks in the foreseeable future, at Caudalie we recommend you “MIST before you MASK” to prevent the bacteria from spreading underneath your mask The Beauty Elixir is an iconic mist to tone and energize the skin, add radiance to the complexion, set makeup but most importantly kill bacteria to prevent “maskne.” 

In the first half of 2020, blue light protective skincare saw a 170% sales increase while blue light protective makeup saw a 179% increase. Do you see blue light skincare continuing to be a major trend? 
Yes, Caudalie has been the pioneer in free radical protection (including blue light)  since launching in 1995 with our skincare line that is based on the grape seed polyphenol, the most powerful antioxidant to protect from free radicals including blue light. Remember to treat the “French Face” (hairline to decollete), hands, and insist on the eye contour 360 degrees as we are squinting in front of our computers more than ever. 

Hospitality from Lisa Anton, Director of Food + Beverage Operations at Gansevoort Meatpacking

What food + drink trends will we be seeing more of?
We believe (and HOPE!) we will see more collaborations amongst neighborhood businesses. We are personally looking forward to working with local vendors whether it be using spices or herbs sourced from Union Square Market or doing another partnership like the specialty cocktail we did for ARTECHOUSE to support and promote their latest art installation. In times like these, we are looking for real comradery especially within the neighborhood to support one another.

What flavors will be trending?
I think after a year like 2020 especially with quarantine boredom leading to overindulging, people are really going to be looking for ways to better their lifestyles in terms of overall health and wellness. As a result, we foresee a demand for more “clean” food and beverage items. Guests will want the extra effort of fresh-squeezed natural juices in their cocktails and entrée items with higher nutritional value. Heavy comfort foods on the way out and nutrient-rich superfoods will make their way back in. 

What role do you see food + bev influencers playing?
 With so many restaurants struggling, we hope to see more support from influencers covering bars and restaurants that are trying to stay afloat and not just focus on current “hot spots.” We also would love for them to research and promote the bars and restaurants going above and beyond to keep their customers safe and protected in this pandemic. A lot of money and effort has been put into outdoor heating systems, plexiglass space dividers, contactless operations, etc. and the public should know they do have the option to go out for a meal and feel comfortable doing so.

Urban planning from Ken Smith, Principal at KEN SMITH WORKSHOP

Has the pandemic informed or changed how you think about the human experience in landscaping and design?
I think people really want to get out again and be able to move freely and comfortably in public.  

What trends do you see as a relic of the pre-pandemic world?
I suspect it will take time for people to feel fully comfortable being back. There is likely to remain certain reticence. I suspect there will be a latent need for more personal space even while participating in public space, in restaurants and shopping, and at events. 

What will be born out of the COVID-19 experience as it relates to landscape, design, and the built environment?
I think people will place greater importance on landscape, openness, access to fresh air.

What are you wanting to see more of 2021? Sound off by emailing us at hello@meatpacking-district.com or tag us on Instagram with your predictions and trends.