Gen Z perspectives: lululemon strikes back, Microsoft's nostalgic Croc & MEA ID

Happy Friday, MARKETING-INTERACTIVE readers and welcome back to Gen Z Perspectives, your go-to feature where we unpack the week’s top stories and trending topics through the eyes of Gen Z. From the biggest industry moves to viral moments and marketing controversies worth dissecting, we’re bringing the heat with authenticity, awareness and probably a few unfiltered takes.

This week, lululemon clapped back at its founder Chip Wilson, STB kicked off a creative pitch, and Microsoft x Crocs served nostalgia with a side of comfort. Plus, a sneak peek at what went down at Marketing Excellence Awards Indonesia.

Engage sport mode, we’ve got stories worth running for.

Don't miss: Gen Z perspectives: Duolingo's ad platform and Gong Cha's 2026 reboot

1. lululemon strikes back at founder Chip Wilson over scorned ad

Lululemon has responded to founder Chip Wilson's recent criticism of the brand which was made public through a paid ad placement in the Wall Street Journal. The brand has come out to state that the founder made "misleading statements" about the company.

In a statement to the media, the yogawear giant said that Wilson has not been involved with the company for a decade, and continues to make "inaccurate and misleading statements about lululemon", its history, board and leadership.

Read more here. 

2. Singapore Tourism Board hunts for creative agency, Ebiquity to handle pitch

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has called a pitch for a new creative agency partner to drive its global marketing and communications strategy from 2026 onwards. Independent consultancy Ebiquity has been appointed to assist STB in managing the pitch and evaluating proposals. The new appointment will take effect from February 2026 for an initial period of two years and two months, with the option to renew for another two years, and subsequently for one additional year.

According to tender documents seen on GeBIZ, the appointed agency will work closely with STB’s marketing group in Singapore to deliver destination marketing for both leisure and business tourism, while also supporting its strategic communications. 

Read more here. 

3. Microsoft brings its iconic wallpaper, Clippy and 2000s nostalgia to Crocs

Microsoft is leaning into nostalgia with a playful new release. The tech giant has unveiled a Microsoft limited edition Crocs bundle, featuring design elements inspired by some of its most iconic moments, including the cultural phenomenon that was Windows XP.

The 'Bliss' backdrop - a photograph of a green hill under a blue sky dotted with white clouds, taken in Sonoma County, California - became an enduring symbol for millions of Windows XP users in the early 2000s. For this limited-edition release, the image has been reimagined and incorporated into the bundle’s accessories and design, giving fans a tangible connection to the brand’s past.

Read more here. 

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