Brand + ROI + AI: What Marketers Must Prioritise in 2026

2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for marketing strategy

 

2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for marketing strategy. Brands are once again the core strategic asset for growth, while AI and performance tactics play supporting roles – but only if investments are structured and measurable.

Key Insights for Businesses

  1. Brand Isn’t Optional – It’s Imperative for Growth
    Brand now ranks above generative AI, martech, and performance channels as the top priority for marketing leaders. Companies actively investing in brand meaning, differentiation, and emotional relevance are capturing the trust and loyalty that drive long-term ROI.
  2. ROI Is Non-Negotiable
    With most CMOs increasing budgets, the pressure to demonstrate measurable impact has never been greater. But not all activities deliver true ROI. Heads of Marketing are increasingly partnering with finance to quantify and report the value delivered through outputs.
  3. Don’t Leave AI on the Sidelines
    While AI’s potential is massive, most businesses haven’t moved beyond early experiments. Companies that establish strong data and technology foundations stand to gain significant efficiency and growth advantages.

Your Next Step

Want a deeper dive into how marketing leaders are transforming strategy for 2026?

If you would like to speak with one of our team of brand and marketing experts, get in touch here.

If you would like a copy of the 2026 report that underpins this blog, please email our team here.