Why Product Standards Matter in the Age of Social Media
- aakintomide
- Sep 23
- 2 min read
In today’s digital landscape, a single unhappy customer can have a wider reach than a national newspaper. Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X (Twitter) have made it possible for consumers to share their experiences and feedback of product standards instantly with millions of people.
Recent examples prove the point: viral videos of Miu Miu jackets with buttons breaking or Mitchum deodorants causing skin reactions have quickly snowballed into brand-damaging conversations online. For businesses, the lesson is clear: your product standards and customer experience are no longer private matters — they’re public assets (or liabilities).
Why Standards of Goods Matter
Consumer Expectations Have Shifted Customers today don't just expect good products, but consistent quality. If a brand fails once, they don’t just lose a sale — they risk losing trust.
Virality Amplifies Risks
Where once a faulty product might have meant a quiet complaint, now it can mean thousands of views, reposts, and memes that reach potential customers across the globe.
Legal Compliance Is Non-Negotiable Beyond reputation, businesses must comply with consumer protection laws, warranties, refund policies, and advertising standards. Regulators are increasingly monitoring businesses in sectors from fashion to tech. Non-compliance isn’t just a PR problem — it’s a legal one.
Practical Steps for Businesses
To protect your brand and your revenue, consider prioritising:
Quality Assurance Systems Put in place checks that are proportional to your size and industry. Don’t just “trust” suppliers — verify them.
Clear Consumer Policies Your returns, refund, and complaint processes should be transparent and accessible. Businesses that respond quickly and fairly turn complaints into loyalty.
Governance Around Suppliers Contracts with manufacturers and distributors should clearly define quality standards, inspection rights, and remedies for non-compliance.
Crisis Management Playbooks Be prepared. If a negative review goes viral, speed and transparency matter. Having a clear internal process for legal, PR, and customer service response can contain the damage.
How Count & Sol Helps
At Count & Sol, we work with ambitious businesses to build the legal and contractual frameworks that protect brand reputation before problems surface. From supplier agreements and compliance checks to consumer policies and governance structures, we help you scale with confidence — knowing your growth story won’t be derailed by one faulty product or one viral video. For deeper insight into how Count & Sol can support your business, book a consultation today.
