Canvas8 Company Profile

Background

Founded in 2008, Canvas8 is a global strategic insights practice specializing in cultural and behavioral trends. Operating from offices in London, Los Angeles, New York, and Singapore, the company assists organizations in understanding human behavior to drive growth. Canvas8's mission is to investigate the hidden insights in everyday life—ranging from the psychology of boredom to teenage make-up rituals—and make them meaningful for brands. Their clientele includes prominent names such as The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Google, Edelman, Mindshare, MTV, Nike, the British Government, and Samsung.

Key Strategic Focus

Canvas8 focuses on media, communications, and product development, offering award-winning insights that inspire clients across various industries. The company operates at the intersection of behavioral science, culture, business, and creativity to understand human behavior. Their flagship product, the Library platform, is an online database containing over 38,000 trend reports and case studies spanning 15 industries, nine markets, and five generational audiences. This platform is complemented by their innovative consultancy services, which often span multiple markets.

Financials and Funding

As of January 2025, Canvas8's annual revenue is estimated to be between $10 million and $50 million. The company employs approximately 225 individuals across six continents, including Europe, North America, and Asia.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Canvas8's technological infrastructure includes a suite of products and services designed to deliver comprehensive insights:

Library Platform: An extensive online database featuring over 38,000 trend reports and case studies across various industries and markets.

Toolkit: A suite of five products launched in May 2023, offering templated consultancy solutions for faster, affordable results.

Access: A platform containing thousands of specialist experts, providing clients with added validation and expertise.

The company employs innovative research methods and is supported by a network of over 3,500 experts, including TED speakers and MIT fellows, to deliver high-quality insights.

Leadership Team

Nick Morris: Founder and Managing Director. Under his leadership, Canvas8 has expanded its global presence and diversified its service offerings.

Marian St Laurent: Appointed as the first US-based Insights Director in October 2021. She leads Canvas8’s semiotics work and has held director roles at Truth Consulting in London and New York, and Black Bamboo in New York.

Hannah Langton: Regional Partnerships Director of Canvas8 APAC. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Singapore office and developing the APAC team.

Leadership Changes

In October 2021, Canvas8 appointed Marian St Laurent as its first US-based Insights Director, marking a significant step in the company's expansion into North America.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The strategic insights industry is characterized by a growing demand for comprehensive understanding of consumer behavior and cultural trends. Companies in this sector leverage behavioral science, cultural analysis, and innovative research methodologies to provide actionable insights for clients across various industries.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the strategic insights and behavioral research industry include:

Arthur D. Little: A global management consultancy firm offering services in strategy, innovation, and technology management.

McKinsey & Company: A leading management consulting firm providing services in strategy, operations, and digital transformation.

Deloitte: A multinational professional services network offering consulting, audit, tax, and advisory services.

BearingPoint: A management and technology consulting firm with a focus on digital transformation and business strategy.

Capgemini: A global leader in consulting, technology services, and digital transformation.

Ayming: A consulting firm specializing in business performance improvement.

The Smart Cube: A provider of research and analytics solutions for businesses.

Crimson & Co: A supply chain consultancy offering services in strategy, planning, and operations.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

In September 2023, Canvas8 partnered with Givaudan Flavors Corporation to publish the latest FlavourVision trend report, highlighting the company's commitment to delivering cutting-edge insights in collaboration with industry leaders.

Operational Insights

Canvas8's strategic expansion into the APAC region, with the launch of a regional headquarters in Singapore in February 2023, underscores its commitment to understanding diverse cultural and behavioral trends. This expansion enhances the company's ability to support both APAC businesses and international clients entering the region.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Canvas8's continued investment in global expansion, technological innovation, and strategic partnerships positions the company to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the strategic insights industry. By leveraging its expertise in behavioral science and cultural analysis, Canvas8 aims to provide clients with actionable insights that drive growth and innovation.