Shopping: Emo Convenience Store at Osaka-Kansai Expo Lets Visitors Share Feelings Through 'Purchased' Emotions

Why it is the topic trending:

• Innovative and Human-Centric Installation: The Kimochi Kiosk is an unconventional concept by a Japanese office furniture manufacturer that transforms convenience store shopping into an emotional exchange, moving beyond typical corporate presentations.

• Focus on Emotional Connection Over Commercial Transactions: The installation's premise centers on allowing visitors to "purchase" and share packaged emotions, highlighting a focus on human connection rather than traditional retail.

• Alignment with Anti-Techlash Sentiment: The concept taps into a growing pushback against machine-driven perfection and celebrates the "beautiful awkwardness" of human interaction.

• Part of a Major International Expo: The installation is featured at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo, bringing it to a global audience and showcasing innovative ideas for future living.

Overview:

• Kimochi Kiosk at Osaka-Kansai Expo: Japanese manufacturer Okamura conceptualized an installation called Kimochi Kiosk for the 2025 expo.

• Emotional Exchange Convenience Store: The kiosk transforms convenience store shopping into an emotional exchange between pairs of visitors.

• "Purchasing" Packaged Emotions: Visitors browse shelves stocked with 46 different packaged emotions, from playful to vulnerable.

• Communication via Receipt: Participants select emotions representing feelings they want to share, "purchase" them at a checkout, and receive a receipt to communicate their choice.

• Focus on Human Connection: The concept emphasizes emotional connection over commercial transactions, stripping away the typical retail aspect.

• Aligns with "HUMANIFESTO" Trend: The installation celebrates authenticity and emotional messiness over algorithmic precision, embodying the "HUMANIFESTO" counter-trend.

Detailed findings:

• Okamura's Kimochi Kiosk: Japanese office furniture manufacturer Okamura designed this installation for the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo.

• "Kimochi" Meaning: In Japanese, "kimochi" means 'feelings'.

• Emotional Exchange: The kiosk transforms convenience store shopping into an emotional exchange between pairs.

• 46 Packaged Emotions: Shelves are stocked with 46 different packaged emotions, not actual snacks and drinks.

• Playful and Vulnerable Options: Emotions include playful ones like Otsukare Rice (a pun on "good work") and more vulnerable sentiments about love or forgiveness.

• Simple Premise: Participants select products representing a feeling they want to share.

• "Purchasing" Emotions: They then "purchase" these emotions at a checkout counter.

• Receipt as Communication Tool: The checkout prints a receipt that participants can use to communicate the feeling they chose to their co-visitor.

• Retail Therapy Focus: The installation offers "retail therapy" in its literal sense by focusing on human connection rather than commerce.

• Future Life Village: The Kimochi Kiosk ran in April 2025 in the expo's Future Life Village.

• Aligns with Okamura's Mission: The concept aligns with Okamura's core mission of "realizing a society where people can thrive."

• Taps into Pushback Against Machine-Driven Perfection: The emotional convenience store directly addresses the growing trend of resisting machine-driven optimization.

• Celebrates Awkward Human Connection: Kimochi Kiosk celebrates the vulnerability and uncertainty of human connection.

• Embodies "HUMANIFESTO" Trend: The installation represents the counter-trend of choosing authenticity and emotional messiness over algorithmic precision.

• Related Concepts Mentioned: The article references a "emotional bookstore" in Naples and a pop-up bar in Italy where patrons select emotions to order drinks, suggesting a broader interest in connecting emotions with consumer experiences.

Key success factors of product (trend):

• Novelty and Intrigue: The unusual concept of "purchasing" emotions in a convenience store setting creates curiosity.

• Focus on Human Connection: In an increasingly digital world, the emphasis on real emotional exchange resonates with many.

• Universality of Emotions: Feelings are a fundamental aspect of human experience, making the concept relatable across cultures.

• Simplicity of the Premise: The straightforward process of selecting an emotion and sharing it through a receipt makes it easy to understand and participate in.

• Alignment with Current Cultural Themes: The pushback against artificial intelligence and the desire for authenticity tap into prevailing cultural sentiments.

Key Takeaway: The Kimochi Kiosk at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo offers a unique and thought-provoking experience by transforming the act of convenience store shopping into an emotional exchange. Visitors can "purchase" packaged emotions to share with a partner, highlighting the value of human connection and authenticity in a world increasingly dominated by technology.

Main trend: The main trend is the growing interest in and exploration of experiences that prioritize human connection, emotional well-being, and authenticity as a counterpoint to the increasing influence of digital technology and artificial intelligence.

Description of the trend (please name it): The trend is "Humanity-Centric Experiences." This describes the increasing design and implementation of services, installations, and products that are intentionally focused on fostering genuine human connection, exploring emotional landscapes, and celebrating the nuances of human interaction in an era of technological advancement.

What is consumer motivation:

• Seeking Deeper Connections: In a digital world, people may feel a lack of genuine connection and seek out opportunities for meaningful interactions.

• Exploring Emotional Landscape: Individuals are often interested in understanding and expressing their own emotions and connecting with the emotions of others.

• Desire for Authenticity: There's a growing desire for real and unfiltered experiences over curated or optimized interactions.

• Counteracting Digital Isolation: Human-centric experiences can provide a welcome antidote to the potential isolation of excessive digital engagement.

• Valuing Emotional Well-being: Recognizing the importance of mental and emotional health, people may be drawn to experiences that foster these aspects.

What is driving trend:

• Digital Saturation and Fatigue: Overexposure to digital interactions can lead to a yearning for more human-centric experiences.

• Awareness of AI's Limitations: As AI becomes more prevalent, there's a renewed appreciation for the unique qualities and complexities of human emotion and connection.

• Cultural Emphasis on Mental Health: Increased awareness and open discussions about mental health contribute to the value placed on emotional well-being.

• Innovation in Experience Design: Creators are exploring new ways to design experiences that prioritize human interaction and emotional engagement.

What is motivation beyond the trend:

• Building Empathy and Understanding: Engaging in emotional exchanges can foster empathy and a deeper understanding of others.

• Creating Shared Moments: Experiencing something like the Kimochi Kiosk with another person can create a unique shared memory.

• Finding Comfort in Vulnerability: The installation encourages the sharing of vulnerable emotions in a safe and structured environment.

Description of consumers article is referring to:

The article refers to visitors of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo, specifically those who participate in the Kimochi Kiosk experience. This would likely include a diverse range of individuals from various cultural backgrounds and age groups attending the expo's Future Life Village.

Summary of Consumer Description: Visitors to the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo who are curious to engage with an innovative installation focused on emotional exchange and human connection, representing a diverse global audience interested in future trends and societal concepts.

• Who are them: Attendees of a major international exposition, likely representing a broad spectrum of ages, nationalities, and interests, particularly those drawn to the "Future Life Village" section focused on societal trends and innovations.

• What kind of products they like: In the context of Kimochi Kiosk, they are interested in engaging with conceptual products that represent emotions, suggesting an openness to abstract and experiential concepts. Generally, expo attendees are interested in a wide range of innovations and ideas.

• What is their age?: Likely a diverse age range, including adults interested in future trends and innovations.

• What is their gender?: The concept of emotional exchange is generally appealing across genders.

• What is their income?: Attendees of a world expo are likely to come from various income levels.

• What is their lifestyle: They are likely curious and forward-thinking individuals interested in exploring new ideas and technologies that could shape the future.

• What are their category article is referring shopping preferences: In the Kimochi Kiosk, they are engaging in a non-commercial form of "shopping" for emotional expression. Generally, expo attendees might be interested in technology, design, and future-oriented products and services.

• Are they low, occasional or frequent category shoppers: As expo attendees, they are likely occasional visitors to such large-scale events.

• What are their general shopping preferences-how they shop products, shopping motivations): Their motivation for participating in the Kimochi Kiosk is likely driven by curiosity and a desire to engage with a novel social experiment focused on emotional connection.

Conclusions: The Kimochi Kiosk exemplifies a growing trend that values authentic human connection and emotional well-being in contrast to the often impersonal and optimized nature of technology. Its presence at the Osaka-Kansai Expo highlights the increasing importance of these "humanity-centric experiences" in shaping our future.

Implications for brands:

• Consider Incorporating Emotional Connection: Brands can explore ways to foster genuine emotional connections with consumers beyond transactional relationships.

• Value Authenticity Over Optimization: Embrace the imperfections and nuances of human interaction in brand experiences.

• Create Opportunities for Real-Life Engagement: Design experiences that encourage face-to-face interaction and shared moments.

Implication for society:

• Renewed Appreciation for Human Interaction: The trend suggests a growing societal value for authentic human connection in the face of increasing technological mediation.

• Focus on Emotional Well-being: Prioritizing emotional health and creating spaces for emotional expression.

Implications for consumers:

• Seeking More Meaningful Experiences: Consumers may increasingly seek out experiences that offer genuine human connection and emotional engagement.

• Being More Mindful of Digital Balance: A greater awareness of the need to balance digital interactions with real-life connections.

Implication for Future:

• Growth of Human-Centric Design: Expect more products, services, and installations to be designed with a focus on fostering human connection and emotional well-being.

• Integration of Technology to Enhance Human Connection: Technology may be used in ways that facilitate and deepen human interaction rather than replace it.

Consumer Trend (name, detailed description): The Authenticity Over Algorithm Consumer: This trend describes consumers increasingly valuing genuine, human-centered experiences and authentic interactions over the efficiency and optimization offered by algorithms and artificial intelligence.

Consumer Sub Trend (name, detailed description): The Experiential Emotional Seeker: This sub-trend highlights individuals actively seeking out experiences that allow for emotional exploration, expression, and connection with others in meaningful ways.

Big Social Trend (name, detailed description): The Techlash and Rebalancing of Digital Life: A growing societal awareness of the potential downsides of excessive technology use and a movement towards finding a healthier balance between digital and real-world interactions.

Worldwide Social Trend (name, detailed description): Global Focus on Well-being and Mental Health: An increasing global emphasis on prioritizing mental and emotional health alongside physical well-being.

Social Drive (name, detailed description): The Need for Belonging, Connection, and Emotional Expression: Fundamental human drives to connect with others on an emotional level and express inner feelings.

Learnings for brands to use in 2025:

• Prioritize Human Interaction in Customer Service: Emphasize real human connection over automated responses.

• Create Community Spaces and Events: Foster opportunities for customers to connect with each other in person.

• Communicate Brand Values with Authenticity and Empathy: Show genuine care and understanding in brand messaging.

Strategy Recommendations for brands to follow in 2025:

• Invest in Human-Centered Design: Develop products and services with a focus on facilitating human interaction and emotional well-being.

• Create Experiential Marketing Initiatives: Design campaigns that encourage real-life engagement and emotional connection.

• Support Mental Health and Well-being Initiatives: Align with causes that promote emotional health and authenticity.

Final sentence (key concept) describing main trend from article (which is a summary of all trends specified), and what brands & companies should do in 2025 to benefit from trend and how to do it. In 2025, the "Humanity-Centric Experiences" trend, exemplified by the Kimochi Kiosk, highlights a growing desire for authentic human connection and emotional well-being as a counterpoint to digital saturation, urging brands to prioritize real-life engagement, emotional resonance, and community building in their offerings and interactions.

Final Note:

• Core Trend: Humanity-Centric Experiences: Prioritizing human connection, emotional well-being, and authenticity.

• Core Strategy: Foster Genuine Emotional Connections and Real-Life Engagement: Brands should focus on human interaction and authentic communication.

• Core Industry Trend: Pushback Against Machine-Driven Perfection: A growing desire for authenticity over optimized efficiency.

• Core Consumer Motivation: Seeking Deeper Connections and Emotional Well-being: A fundamental human need for meaningful interaction and a focus on mental health.

Final Conclusion: The Kimochi Kiosk offers a compelling glimpse into a future where human connection and emotional expression are valued as essential elements of the consumer experience. In a world increasingly shaped by technology, this trend suggests a powerful yearning for authentic interactions and a renewed focus on what it truly means to be human. Brands that can tap into this desire and create experiences that foster genuine connection and emotional well-being are likely to resonate deeply with consumers in 2025 and beyond.

Core Trend Detailed: description. The core trend, Humanity-Centric Experiences, signifies a growing societal recognition and prioritization of genuine human interaction, emotional well-being, and authentic self-expression, particularly as a response to the pervasive and sometimes isolating nature of digital technologies and artificial intelligence. This trend moves beyond the pursuit of efficiency and optimization driven by algorithms to celebrate the inherent value and beauty found in the complexities of human connection, including vulnerability, empathy, and shared emotional experiences. It reflects a desire for more meaningful and tangible engagements that foster a sense of community, belonging, and a deeper understanding of oneself and others, often as a conscious counterbalance to the increasingly automated and impersonal aspects of modern life. This shift underscores a fundamental human need for authentic connection and emotional resonance in a world that is rapidly evolving through technological advancements.

Key Characteristics of the Core trend:

• Prioritization of Human Interaction: Experiences are designed to facilitate face-to-face engagement and direct communication between people.

• Emphasis on Emotional Well-being: Focus on creating environments and activities that support mental and emotional health.

• Celebration of Authenticity and Vulnerability: Encouraging genuine self-expression and connection without the pressure of curated online personas.

• Counterbalance to Digital Dominance: Offering opportunities to disconnect from technology and engage in real-world interactions.

• Focus on Shared Experiences and Community Building: Creating a sense of belonging and connection among participants.

Market and Cultural Signals Supporting the Trend:

• Kimochi Kiosk at Osaka-Kansai Expo: This installation is a direct example of an experience designed around emotional exchange.

• "Emotional Bookstore" and Pop-Up Bar Concepts: The mentioned related concepts further highlight the interest in connecting emotions with consumer experiences.

• Growing Awareness of Mental Health and Digital Well-being: Increased societal focus on these issues drives demand for human-centric alternatives.

• Popularity of Experiences Over Material Possessions: A general trend towards valuing real-life experiences and connections.

How the Trend Is Changing Consumer Behavior:

• Seeking Out Opportunities for In-Person Interaction: Consumers may prioritize events, workshops, and gatherings that offer real human connection.

• Being More Mindful of Digital Usage: A conscious effort to balance screen time with face-to-face interactions.

• Supporting Brands That Value Authenticity: Choosing brands that prioritize genuine customer service and community engagement.

Implications Across the Ecosystem:

• For Brands and CPGs: Opportunity to differentiate by offering human-centered experiences and building emotional connections with consumers.

• For Retailers: Creating welcoming and community-oriented spaces in physical stores.

• For Consumers: More opportunities for meaningful interactions and a greater focus on emotional well-being.

Strategic Forecast:

• The trend of Humanity-Centric Experiences is expected to grow as concerns about digital isolation and the limitations of AI increase.

• We may see more businesses and organizations intentionally designing experiences that foster human connection.

Areas of innovation (based on discovered trend):

• Hybrid Digital-Physical Experiences: Utilizing technology to enhance, but not replace, human interaction.

• Community-Focused Business Models: Building businesses around the concept of fostering connection and belonging.

• Spaces Designed for Emotional Expression: Creating environments that encourage open and honest communication of feelings.

Final Thought (summary): The Humanity-Centric Experiences trend signifies a vital rebalancing in a world increasingly shaped by technology. The Kimochi Kiosk serves as a poignant example of this movement, reminding us of the profound value of genuine human connection and emotional exchange. As we navigate an era of rapid technological advancement, the desire for authentic interaction and a focus on emotional well-being will likely become even more pronounced, shaping the future of how we connect, consume, and experience the world around us.

Source: https://www.trendwatching.com/innovations/emo-convenience-store-lets-visitors-share-their-feelings-via-milk-tea-and-instant-noodles