Why are young professionals choosing to stand outside common rum shops across Trinidad to bond with their friends? Check Brooklyn Bar on a Friday afternoon or Pi’s on Maraval Road and you would think Machel is having a concert. And it’s not a dollars thing. They have tons of disposable income. So what is it?
The answer may be provided by futurist Faith Popcorn. She calls 2010 the Year of the LOCO (Local Cocooning). Local Cocooning, according to her is an outgrowth of the dominant Trend of Icon Toppling. Consumer scepticism will drive the “anti-big” movement; Anchoring and Clanning will provide our new touchstones for Trust. And those safer havens are Local.
So instead of going to the big name bars like Trotters, Shakers, Crobar or Aura, these MBA’s are heading to their favourite pavement pub. Usually a non-descript bar with no perks. Don’t expect any napkins and stirrers here. And no chairs either. It’s standing room only and everyone is engrossed and comfortable.
Local bars are hoping the phenomenon lasts indefinitely.
