Michigan, US, 23rd June 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, As inflation continues to shape consumers’ daily decisions, New York City based marketing strategist Augustus Kirby urges brands to shift away from transactional messaging and embrace value-based branding. In today’s economic climate, Kirby says, loyalty isn’t built on price; it’s built on purpose.

“People aren’t just pinching pennies, they’re reevaluating what matters,” explains Kirby, who has worked with clients worldwide. “They want to know that the money they spend is going toward something meaningful. That’s where value-based branding enters.”

With food, rent, and transportation costs remaining elevated, Kirby notes that surface-level promotions no longer dazzle consumers. Instead, they seek brands that reflect their identity, ethics, and aspirations. “If your brand message doesn’t make someone feel something, it’s noise,” he says. “And people are tuning out noise faster than ever.”

In NYC, Values Drive Purchasing Power

New York City, known for its high cost of living and diverse population, is a proving ground for this new branding reality. Kirby says some of the city’s most resilient businesses have survived the economic shocks of the past year not by slashing prices, but by reinforcing their mission.

“From sustainable fashion houses in Brooklyn to vegan eateries in Queens, NYC brands that lead with their values outperform expectations,” says Kirby. “Their customers aren’t just buying products, they’re buying a worldview they identify with.”

He cites the example of a Harlem-based skincare company that doubled its customer base by showcasing its commitment to Black-owned supply chains and eco-friendly packaging. “That’s value-based branding in action. It’s not charity. It’s smart business rooted in cultural alignment.”

Beyond Discounts: A New Marketing Playbook

Kirby acknowledges that traditional marketing tactics like discount codes and seasonal blowouts exist only when embedded in a broader narrative. “Promotions are effective when they feel like a reward for belonging, not a plea for attention,” he says.

He encourages brands to consider the following core elements in crafting their value-based branding strategies:

• Purpose Over Promotion: Consumers want to know why you exist, not just what you sell. Your brand purpose should be clear, lived, and visible across channels.

• Community-Driven Content: Instead of broadcasting polished ads, Kirby urges marketers to showcase user stories, behind-the-scenes processes, and mission-aligned collaborations. “People trust people more than logos,” he adds.

• Transparent Messaging: Clarity is currency in an economy where trust is fragile. Brands that are upfront about sourcing, pricing, and business practices earn respect and repeat customers.

The Inflation Filter: A Permanent Shift?

While many marketers may hope inflation is temporary, Kirby warns against waiting it out. “This isn’t just a phase. Consumers have learned to filter out fluff. The economy may improve, but their standards won’t revert,” he says.

According to a recent report by Edelman, 64% of global consumers now say they choose, switch, avoid, or boycott a brand based on its stand on societal issues. “That’s not a trend. That’s a redefinition of loyalty,” says Kirby.

What Brands Should Do Right Now

Kirby advises marketers to take three immediate steps to thrive in this new landscape:

1. Audit Your Brand Purpose
   “If your team can’t articulate why your brand exists beyond profit, start there,” he says. “Consumers can sniff out empty mission statements from a mile away.”

2. Engage Authentically
   Use social platforms, especially niche ones, to converse honestly with your audience. “Don’t just post. Listen. Respond. Learn.”

3. Measure What Matters
   “Move beyond vanity metrics. Look at retention, customer sentiment, and organic referrals,” Kirby says. “That’s where the real ROI of value-based branding lives.”

NYC’s Edge in the New Economy

Kirby believes New York City is uniquely positioned to lead the value-driven branding movement. “This city runs on meaning,” he says. “There’s no one-size-fits-all here. NYC brands thrive when they reflect the mosaic of people they serve.”

He points to the growing number of NYC businesses embedding activism, sustainability, and cultural storytelling into their campaigns. “It’s not performative. It’s personal. And customers respond to that.”

The Future of Marketing: Smaller, Sharper, Sincere

In Augustus Kirby’s view, consumers’ economic pressure is forcing brands to evolve fast. “We’re entering an era where being the cheapest or the loudest isn’t enough. You need to be the most aligned,” he says.

And while challenges persist, Kirby sees opportunity. “Smart brands aren’t just weathering this moment, they’re using it to deepen loyalty in ways that last far beyond inflation cycles,” he concludes. “Because when money is tight, meaning matters more.”

About Augustus Kirby
Augustus Kirby is a marketing consultant based in New York City specializing in brand positioning, community strategy, and technology-driven growth solutions. With over a decade of experience advising startups and global firms, Kirby is known for helping brands navigate complex shifts in consumer behavior, platform dynamics, and economic conditions.

To learn more visit: https://augustus-kirby.com/

Lier, Belgium, 23rd June 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, Sandford Blair Capital, a quantitative investment management firm with nearly two decades of experience, continues to demonstrate strong performance in evolving market conditions. By combining advanced analytics with disciplined risk management, the firm has established itself as a reliable partner for institutional and private investors seeking uncorrelated returns.

A Focus on Systematic Investment Solutions

Unlike traditional asset managers that rely on discretionary decision-making, Sandford Blair Capital employs a research-driven approach, utilizing proprietary models to identify and capitalize on market opportunities. Its strategies are designed to adapt to shifting economic landscapes, making them particularly effective in volatile environments.

“Our philosophy centers on consistency rather than speculation,” said a senior executive at the firm. “By focusing on data and systematic execution, we aim to deliver performance that isn’t dependent on short-term market trends.”

Navigating Global Economic Shifts

Recent macroeconomic challenges—including fluctuating interest rates, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain disruptions—have tested many investment strategies. Sandford Blair’s ability to adjust its models in real-time has allowed it to mitigate risks while maintaining performance.

The firm’s success has attracted attention from institutional investors looking for stability in uncertain markets. However, capacity constraints remain a key consideration, as the firm prioritizes maintaining performance over rapid expansion.

A Long-Term Vision for Sustainable Growth

Looking ahead, Sandford Blair Capital plans to refine its investment frameworks while exploring new areas where quantitative methods can add value. The firm remains committed to transparency, risk management, and delivering results that align with client objectives.

“Markets will always evolve, but our focus on innovation and discipline does not,” the executive added. “We believe that’s what sets us apart.”

Florida, US, 23rd June 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, Deipno® Tea & Spice Blends, known for its artisanal teas and premium seasonings, proudly announces the expansion of its pantry collection with the launch of new Gourmet Peppers and Herb-Infused Sea Salts. Crafted for home cooks, culinary enthusiasts, and wellness-focused food lovers, these new additions offer bold, balanced flavor profiles designed to elevate everyday meals with ease.

The new Gourmet Peppers selection features hand-selected pepper varieties from around the world, each delivering distinct heat levels, aromas, and culinary versatility. From bright and citrusy pink peppercorns to the deep complexity of smoked and specialty ground peppers, these premium options allow cooks to fine-tune seasoning for every dish.

Complementing the peppers, Deipno® introduces a new line of Herb-Infused Sea Salts, blending natural sea salt with fragrant herbs, citrus zest, and savory botanicals. These salts offer both flavor and trace minerals, enhancing meats, seafood, vegetables, and even baked goods with vibrant, well-rounded seasoning.

“Our goal is to give home cooks the same level of quality and control that professional chefs enjoy,” said a spokesperson for Deipno® Tea & Spice Blends. “With these gourmet peppers and herb-infused salts, everyday cooking becomes an opportunity to experiment, refine, and create dishes with true depth of flavor.”

Featured Products:
• Gourmet Peppers – A curated range of whole and ground pepper varieties, delivering layers of heat, aroma, and complexity to both classic and global recipes.
• Herb-Infused Sea Salts – Blended with Mediterranean herbs, garlic, and citrus for bright, balanced seasoning that elevates every meal.
• Salts from Greece Online – Mineral-rich sea salts sourced directly from Greece, bringing the purity and flavor of coastal salt harvesting to the modern kitchen.

All products are blended in small batches to maintain freshness, flavor integrity, and exceptional quality. Designed for versatility, these new offerings are equally suited for simple weeknight dinners, gourmet weekend cooking, or creative recipe development.

About Deipno® Tea & Spice Blends

Deipno® Tea & Spice Blends is a modern craft brand rooted in the belief that exceptional flavor begins with exceptional ingredients. Focused on small-batch production and intentional sourcing, Deipno® offers a curated selection of teas, herbal infusions, and gourmet spice blends that bring global traditions into everyday kitchens. Each blend is thoughtfully developed to balance taste, functionality, and versatility—whether in a teacup, on a plate, or as part of a creative recipe. From wellness rituals to inspired cooking, Deipno® helps home cooks and tea drinkers elevate simple moments into extraordinary ones.

Contact Information

Website: www.deipnoblends.com