Microtrends

'Microtrends - the small forces behind tomorrow's big changes' is a wonderful book for those who are interested in learning about socio-economic trends and in general how people behave. The book doesnt explain why people behave that way. All it explains is how people in small groups act like microcosms and why their needs are different. It is a wonderful treatise on the way these small groups are changing the political scene and the policies. It also talks about potential business opportunities targeted to these small groups.
I did think about a few of business ideas (not a million-making ones, but good enough to live ones) while reading the book. A couple of them I share here.
Idea: Mobile pantry cafe
Target market: local train stations for commuters
This idea is very simple. There are estimated 3.4 million extreme commuters (traveling more than 90 miles one way). If you could figure out the places they are headed to, you could have all the early requirements for them and help them out at cheaper prices than starbucks or a simple breakfast at much cheaper price. For example, in San Diego, where I live a lot of people head to Mira Mesa, Sorrento Valley Blvd in the morning. This is a perfect place to have mobile cafe. In fact I saw one a couple of weeks ago. So I presume people are already acting up on it.

Idea: Social network for empty nesters
Target market: there are estimated 10000 people retiring every day. Most of these people are empty nesters with either their spouse or no one who live with them. They would be pretty bored at home all day along.
The idea is to create a social network, but with much more active participation. Find out empty nesters in the community and arrange for simple fun games or activities for them, for a very nominal fee. An online facebook like of application would also work, if we can streamline the applications to suit their needs. Of course it got to be less technology oriented than facebook and just no nonsense kind of network.
anyway, there a lot of niche markets that can be targeted. i strongly recommend all my friends to read this book. If you like to buy it, here is a link for it.
Microtrends: The Small Forces Behind Tomorrow's Big Changes