The Performance Economy

Are we moving from the era of the experience economy, where memorable events and experiences were prioritised, towards a performance-based economy, where proritsed are events and experiences that support attention-seeking performances?

This is an idea I begin to discuss in an article published in The Conversation. Covid-19 has perhaps hastened a shift that was already underway. Events have been hard hit by social restrictions. Performing in online bubbles has become an extra important source of social connection.

The potential impacts on businesses and consumers of a shift towards a performance-based economy could be significant. 20 years ago the experience economy changed the way people consumed. Today, another major shift may be underway.

Above: Me badly illustrating the performance economy by trying to upload a flattering selfie to my social media. The performance economy is all about putting oneself on show, and making purchases that help support this; like my lovely stars jumper here.