In 2014, the global population is forecast to reach 7.2 billion with an average life expectancy of 71.3 years at birth, 3 years higher than 2004. The urban transformation continues with 53.1% of the world population expected to be urban dwellers in 2014. A global demographic divide persists with developed economies ahead in ageing and urbanisation trends compared to emerging markets. Population trends are vital to understand shifts in consumer and labour markets of the future as well as demand.