How Brands Are Navigating Tariffs, Uncertainty, and Shifting Marketing Strategies

With the introduction of new tariffs and increasing economic pressure, marketers are facing a rapidly evolving landscape—one where agility, data, and strategic focus are more critical than ever.

In our latest Rockerbox webinar, Ashley McOpen (Head of Marketing) and Kelsey (Head of Customer Success) shared firsthand insights from conversations with brands across industries. They covered how marketing teams are adjusting budgets, messaging, and measurement strategies to stay resilient amid growing uncertainty.

🔍 Key Takeaways from the Discussion

1. Tariffs Are Forcing Strategic Shifts

Brands are moving from “growth at all costs” to a focus on protecting margins and validating spend. Many are cutting budgets and reforecasting based on new economic realities, while still trying to hit aggressive goals.

“We’re seeing a shift from proactive growth to reactive strategy—but data can help brands break that cycle.”

2. Real-Time Data Is Essential

Rockerbox customers are using real-time insights to identify shifts in buyer behavior—like panic buying ahead of price hikes or elongated consideration windows due to increased price sensitivity.

✅ Tools like conversion lag tracking, PDP view analysis, and adjusted attribution windows are helping brands see beyond traditional ROAS.

3. Retention and Value Messaging Are Rising

With acquisition costs on the rise, brands are doubling down on owned channels, email/SMS flows, and bundled offers that speak to cost-conscious buyers. They're also leaning into transparent, value-based messaging—emphasizing durability, domestic sourcing, and promotions.

“Retention is becoming the growth strategy. Now’s the time to revisit how you're segmenting and re-engaging customers.”

4. Incrementality and MMM Matter More Than Ever

In a volatile environment, brands need to understand what’s actually driving results. Rockerbox clients are leaning into incrementality testing and MMM to optimize spend, validate investments, and uncover opportunities to shift dollars with confidence.

5. The Most Resilient Brands Are Data-Led, Not Panic-Led

Customers are shortening their planning cycles, shifting to month-by-month decisions, and focusing only on what’s working now. Rockerbox enables teams to move fast without guessing—by offering clarity across channels, audiences, and customer types.

“The most successful brands are the ones that test, iterate, and follow the data—even in the face of disruption.”

📺 Want the Full Picture?

Watch the full on-demand webinar to hear all the insights, examples, and audience Q&A directly from Ashley and Kelsey. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies to better navigate uncertainty and protect your marketing performance.

👉 Watch the Webinar On-Demand