Users spend 30 minutes a day consuming memes, call it a stress buster, report

Memes have taken over the internet from being used by brands to connect with young consumer base to even the purpose of trolling. In their simplest form, memes were images paired with text, often making light of a current event. Over time, however, the term “meme” has become a catchall phrase — for some, memes are a form of entertainment, while others use them to express themselves, and still others use them as a tool to promote their brands.

Their popularity have further been highlighted as per the data from management consultancy, Redseer on the rising demand for meme creation apps. The report states that users spend 30 minutes a day consuming memes, 80% have increased meme consumption in the last year.

“On average, we spend 30 minutes a day on the internet only consuming memes. The shareability of memes makes them popular among groups with the same interest or even globally because most people find them relatable. Thus, it comes as no surprise that in just the last on year, close to 80% have increased meme consumption,” says Mrigank Gutgutia, partner, Redseer.

The report further highlights that most users enjoy memes as a good way to release stress. Interestingly 50% expect their meme consumption to increase further.

For most people, memes are an easy way to distract themselves from the hustle and bustle of life and work. The findings state that the strong association between meme use and positive emotions is why marketers are increasingly turning to them as a way to connect with their audiences and build a rapport.

“This is especially true when it comes to funny and entertaining content, as it’s often the first thing users turn when stressed. Social media is the primary source for access to memes, followed by word of mouth from friends and family,” adds Gutgutia.

Around 90% of consumers are open to creating memes themselves, indicating large latent demand for meme creation apps. Memes are also a way to express oneself. A lot of people take the time and effort to even create their own memes, and research suggests that close to 90% of consumers were willing to do so. Social media has allowed everyone to try their hand at content creation, thus, this has paved the way for the rise of meme creation apps and platforms.

The report also highlighted that people want to consume or create memes for brand building and as a creative outlet, and not just for making money. An important aspect that makes memes attain such huge popularity in a short period of time is that any individual can connect to them – and this works great for brand building and marketing.

Memes are now at the peak of the entertainment sector. To keep up with this rising demand, meme creation platforms are crowding the market, indicating that monumental growth is on the cards for this industry.

Some of the popular meme apps being used include MemeChat, Mematic, iFunny, Giphy and Zombordroid among others.