2023 Edelman Trust Barometer: Special Report — The Collapse of the Purchase Funnel

2023

The Collapse of the Purchase Funnel.

In a volatile world rife with pressures on consumers, from health and the economy to challenges to rights and freedoms and an eroding sense of community, consumers are demanding more from brands.

The relationship between consumers and brands must evolve, as people feel more vulnerable, and their expectations of brands grow. The 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report: The Collapse of the Purchase Funnel tells us that consumers are looking for ongoing engagement after the point of purchase and their need for trust grows with feelings of vulnerability.

Personal and societal threats have led to a more discerning consumer.

are more price conscious
0 %
are making fewer impulse purchases
0 %
are doing more research before they buy
0 %
say there are brands they will not buy because of the countries in which they are HQ'd
0 %

Gen Z is impacting the entire buying ecosystem.

Teenagers and college-aged people influence where and how I shop.

The purchase funnel no longer reflects the modern brand-consumer relationship, purchase is just the beginning.

0 %

of Gen Z say it’s more important than ever to trust the brands they buy, more than any other generation surveyed

0 %

of consumers say Gen Z influences where and how they shop, with a staggering 12-point increase in one year on those age 59+

Building brands in a vulnerable world

1. Move beyond the funnel

Today’s consumers want an ongoing relationship with brands, and most consideration happens after the purchase. Build your brand and measurement strategy around the Trust Loop.

2. Work with Z, don’t underestimate them

Gen Z is changing the face of global commerce. They are pragmatic and highly influential. Even if they’re not your target, work with them to unlock consumer action at scale.

3. Make trust your growth engine

With trust, brand action fuels consumer action – buying, advocacy and loyalty. Through a reciprocal relationship that builds trust, you can unlock growth.

What does this mean for your business? 

Download the report, explore the findings and learn how we can help your company bridge the gap.

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