Every holiday season, we’re pressured to buy more and new – at the cost of our wallets and the planet. Design agency AKQA aims to break this pattern by celebrating mending and repairing with Fixie, a digital platform and AI assistant that serves as a one-stop solution for all things repair.

Fixie is an interactive chat interface and your guide through all manner of repair processes. Whether it’s providing step-by-step instructions, tips for maintenance, or planet-friendly disposal options, Fixie has you covered. And if that wasn’t enough, Fixie also serves as a motivational companion, emphasizing the sentimental and environmental value of repair.

At first, giving someone something you’ve repaired might sound a bit unusual. However, research shows that it might be a very good idea. The gifts that people love most are not necessarily expensive but are highly personalized and reflect a deep understanding of the receiver. Showing that you understand the value someone attaches to an object and repairing that beloved item might even be the best way to demonstrate your deep understanding of the recipient.

If you already have a present in mind that needs fixing, say hi to Fixie here.

Sharing laughter therefore shortens the distance between people, making them more open to disclosing personal information. Humour can defuse tension and bring us together like nothing else. It’s how we make friends, bond with co-workers, and get our entertainment. And yet, humour is often missing in many parts of our lives.

Looking at advertising in the past years, the amount of humorous ads has seen a sharp decline. 95% of business leaders now fear humor in consumer interactions. There are several explanations for this. One of the explanations is that purpose marketing has gained traction, and we often find it challenging to incorporate humour into serious causes. However, isn’t bringing people together (with the help of a good laugh) purposeful marketing in itself?