Better Merch...Better Marketing: The Year of Big Bets and Bigger Budgets

In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman talk about why major brands are making bold moves in 2026. They break down Hershey’s decision to increase its marketing budget by 20 percent and lean further into influencer and digital marketing, and discuss why the rising cost of Super Bowl ads may still be a smart investment. They also introduce the idea of 2026 as the “Year of the Horse” and what that mindset means for brands ready to grow, take action, and build momentum.