Conversation #1 - Post-recession, don’t try and turn the clock back – it’s a Brave New World

It’s still early days, but even though the worst of the recession may be receding, don’t be tempted to think that the old rules will return.

Everyone has been impacted by the recession - some in financial terms and others (even those for whom lower mortgage rates have meant they are better off) in less tangible, psychological ways.

For many, the sense of a survived crisis will have triggered a re-evaluation of what is important, with a recognition that health, happiness and connections with friends, families and communities are more important than material goods.

Marketers need to ensure they understand how these shifts in priorities affect buying decisions in the categories in which they operate – clearly there will be winners and losers.

And for businesses, there is the very real challenge of operating in a context where top-line growth is extremely difficult to achieve, and where further cost cutting is an inevitability. The right context will need to be set for this year’s rounds of operating plans!

Let us know what you think. Submit your response here and we’ll post asap.