reply to Zac's post in simple words. Reply in 6 to 7 sentences and ask a question.

Hello Class, Branding and brand image are some of the most important aspects for marketers because they shape how consumers view a product, service, or even the company as a whole. A strong brand image helps build trust, recognition, and loyalty (Gratton, 2025). Sony is a great example of this. When people see the Sony logo on a camera, they often associate it with high-quality technology and innovative features, even before learning the full specs. That emotional connection or expectation plays a huge role in brand loyalty and purchasing decisions. A well- known brand can also help justify premium pricing. Channel images should always be consistent with the overall brand image. Whether the channel is online, an advertisement, or a physical store, it's often the first place a consumer interacts with the brand (Zatorski, 2024). If the tone or message doesn't match the brand's identity, it can confuse consumers and weaken brand recognition. For example, Sony's \"Road to Zero\" is a long-term environmental plan aiming to eliminate its environmental footprint by 2050 (Sony Group Corporation, 2025). But if Sony cameras came packaged in excessive plastic, it would make people question whether they're truly committed to that goal. Keeping messages and actions consistent across all channels helps reinforce the brand's story and builds both credibility and trust. Online availability has had a major impact on branding. On one hand, it has made it easier for smaller brands to gain visibility and compete with bigger names through platforms like Amazon, Instagram, or Etsy. On the other hand, it has also increased competition and made branding more important than ever. Today, consumers can compare dozens of similar products instantly with just their phones, so brand images need to stand out clearly and quickly (MasterClass, 2022). Also, with social media and influencer marketing being such a big part of consumer behavior, online reviews now play a huge role in shaping how people view a brand. A single viral TikTok can make or break a company's image. That is why online availability has made branding not just important, but essential for any company hoping to succeed in today's digital market. -/ac