The economy may be shifting, but one thing is clear: consumers are shifting faster. They’re cutting back, trading down, and reevaluating what’s truly worth their money. For brands, staying relevant in this climate means moving beyond short-term promotions and focusing on long-term value.
But value isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. It’s emotional, it’s social, and it’s defined by the consumer, not the company. Our new guide for brands, Building a Recession-Proof Value Strategy is designed to help marketers bridge the gap between shrinking wallets and rising expectations. Because in 2025, showing up on social media isn’t enough. You need to show up with clarity, consistency, and purpose.
Here are three key takeaways from the report:
🔍 Value is multi-dimensional, and consumers define it.
Today’s consumers are looking for emotional reassurance, durability, social alignment, and convenience. Brands should take the time to understand how value is perceived in their category and adjust their messaging accordingly on social platforms.
📊 Social media is the new recession barometer.
Platforms like TikTok, Reddit, and Instagram have become spaces where people share spending habits, product recommendations, and brand perceptions in real time. If you want to understand where your brand stands, look there and not just at economic indicators or internal dashboards.
💬 Creators and community feedback are strategic tools.
Relatable creators often hold more influence than traditional ads, and social comments offer direct insight into what matters most to your audience. Tapping into micro-creators, monitoring comment trends, and embracing Comments as Creative (CasC) are key ways to build trust and relevance.
For more insights and examples, watch the replay of our virtual event and download the report below!
