Insights
No fluff.
Just smart thinking.
This is where we cut through the noise. From trends that matter to opinions that challenge the norm, we share insights to help you make better marketing decisions, faster. We believe the best marketing advice doesn’t need a translations guide. Our insights break down what’s happening in brand, digital and communications, and what it means to you.
Join the dots to create the full marketing picture
One of the biggest misconceptions is that a full-service agency will offer more than anyone else. That’s not true. It won’t. If you’re starting…
Stop briefing campaigns and start briefing problems
By the time a campaign reaches an agency, a lot of good thinking has already happened. The commercial objective has been made clear, the audience has…
Don’t count on numbers to tell the real story
We’re obsessed with numbers, measuring and metrics and there’s never been more data available to fill a marketing report; web traffic, click…
The funnel has left the building
The marketing funnel used to make everything look so reassuringly simple.
The World Cup proves attention can’t just be bought
The FIFA World Cup is one of the biggest marketing stages on the planet. But who's winning?
Why internal comms needs its own strategy
Internal comms was often seen as the poor relation of PR and marketing. A few all-staff emails. A slide on the intranet. Maybe a quarterly town hall…
Why long-term brand visibility is the best hedge against headwinds
Consistent brand visibility builds familiarity, confidence and resilience, making it one of the strongest defences in uncertain markets.
Privacy, first-party data and the future of personalisation
As privacy tightens, first-party data becomes the key to personalisation, balancing trust, relevance and measurable ROI.
Simplicity is the hardest creative skill
Simple creative looks effortless but requires clarity, restraint and confidence to choose what truly matters.
Why consumer caution is a brand opportunity
Cautious consumers reward brands that offer clarity, consistency and confidence, not louder messaging or short-term pressure.
Consumer Duty has changed marketing. Many teams haven’t caught up
Consumer Duty has raised the bar for marketing clarity, forcing teams to focus on understanding not just compliance.
Championing the next generation
Strand is proud to sponsor the Young Achiever Award at the Heart Hertfordshire Hero Awards 2025, recognising under-18s making a difference.