Alison McCarthy

The dramatic uptick in companies that want a space at South by Southwest’s Wellness Expo reflects the rise of the industry and shows how brands are increasingly trying to reach this wellness-minded audience.

Even though wellness is a growing sector, it probably isn’t wise for legacy companies to make abrupt shifts to enter the category, which can confuse and abandon key customers –– especially when big sales are at stake.

Tech is weaving its way into workplace wellness programs, offering big perks to employers and employees. But some wonder whether the data workers share through these trackers could come back to bite them later on.

It makes sense that entrepreneurs who have become household names would want to be associated with wellness. It could help them stay relevant and get in on a growing movement.

It may seem like there’s trouble ahead for CBD based on recent speed bumps, but new players entering the category only see opportunity.

Much of the wellness movement centers around prevention, or staying active and treating your body in a way that can help keep health problems at bay. Smart startups –– and even large corporate brands –– are finding ways to take advantage of this shift in how we think about health.

Direct-to-consumer wellness startups with a health bent are seeing big investments and growth. The momentum will likely continue in the year ahead.

Keeping up with the demand for wellness isn’t just a good idea — it’s essential for companies that want to continue to lead their respective categories.

From health biohacking and on-demand fitness, to innovative wearable tech and more, it’s safe to say wellness isn’t just having a moment –– it’s a full-on movement that will only continue to gain momentum in 2019.

Find out what’s on the rise and worth tracking in the wellness industry this year with these Megatrends, from mind- and body-focused co-working spaces to health biohacking to the continued buzz around CBD.