Consumer Trust

Los Angeles – September 24, 2026 -- Young consumers trust artificial intelligence for everyday use but not for advice, according to a new industry report that has reshaped how retail and consumer brands are approaching Gen Z engagement.

Pacsun's 2026 Youth Report, developed with GlobalData, found that influencers never exceed an 11% trust share in any category tested among young consumers. Artificial intelligence shows an even starker gap between adoption and credibility: 85% of young people use AI, yet only 2% trust it for fashion advice and 5% for financial advice. The research instead points to family and friends as the primary trusted sources for this demographic.

London – September 22, 2026 -- The Natural Diamond Council has rebranded as The Diamond Collective, launching a new global strategy to rebuild consumer demand for natural diamonds amid rising competition from synthetic alternatives.

New CEO shapes strategy after six months of industry consultation

Amber Pepper, who took over as CEO, developed the strategy following talks with producers, retailers, brands, creatives and consumers. The plan responds to shifts in how people discover and buy luxury goods, aiming to convert consumer desire into sustained purchasing demand.