Trump’s tariffs are coming - here’s why UK PR just became non-negotiable

First, it was the EU’s new General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), which piled on fresh challenges for UK businesses, especially those exporting to the EU or Northern Ireland.

Now? Continued uncertainty over US tariffs is adding even more pressure. And while recent developments suggest there’s a good chance a deal could be agreed, nothing is guaranteed.

While some businesses scramble to rethink pricing or supply chains, there’s one thing brands can control right now: how you show up in the press.

This is the time to double down on PR. When the market gets noisy, PR helps you cut through

1. UK customers need more reasons to buy British

If US products become more expensive or harder to source, UK consumers will start turning closer to home. Brands that clearly and consistently communicate their value, purpose and USP will win out.

Strong PR gives you the platform to:

• Share your brand story with authority

• Position yourself as a viable (and exciting) alternative to big-name imports

• Build trust with UK audiences who are rethinking how and where they spend
  

2. Tighter budgets = smarter decisions

Tariffs usually lead to higher costs, whether through shipping, materials or supply chain delays. If your profit margins are likely to tighten, investing in high-ROI marketing is a no-brainer.

And PR? It doesn’t require paid ads or costly production. When done right, it gives you:

• Organic press coverage in trusted publications

• Long-term brand visibility

• Reusable assets you can share across your channels
  
  

3. Your reputation is your currency

In uncertain times, trust sells. And PR is one of the best tools to build trust at scale. When your brand is featured in the likes of Stylist, The Independent, or SheerLuxe, it does more than boost visibility – it sends a message: this brand is credible.

With more customers scrutinising their spending, that third-party endorsement becomes even more valuable.

4. Proactive brands stay visible – even in chaos

If Trump’s tariffs shake up the market, the brands who already have strong PR foundations will be best placed to respond quickly and confidently. They’ll have:

• Clear messaging

• Established media relationships

• A proven PR strategy they can adapt fast
  
  

Waiting until the headlines hit is too late. The time to build visibility is now – before the noise kicks off.

Bottom line? Whether or not Trump’s policies directly impact your business, the global uncertainty will trickle down. UK PR isn’t just a marketing lever anymore – it’s a resilience strategy.

And for brands looking to grow without relying on ad spend or unstable international markets? It might just be your smartest investment yet.

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