James Denman on Brand Loyalty, Social Channel Strategy, and the Power of the XY Method

Christine Russo, host of What Just Happened, sat down with James Denman, a brand strategy and marketing leader for luxury and fashion brands. Russo and Denman explored how brand marketing is evolving, emphasizing modern strategies that break rigid traditional models.

Denman pointed to the need for brands to modernize their marketing approaches through a multi-channel, consistent strategy rather than relying heavily on outdated campaign-driven models. He highlighted Burberry’s success with its "always Burberry weather" campaign as an example of consistent creative experimentation and drip content across social channels. Denman stressed the importance of clarity, intentionality, and bravery, with clarity being the foundation for building lasting consumer engagement.

Kith's Kaka and Adidas campaign kicked of an insightful discussion about the XY Method. Russo and Denman discussed how this strategy simultaneously satisfies two audiences: one axis focused on the brand’s product or message and the other creating deeper engagement for fans through insider storytelling. Denman referenced Kith’s collaboration with Adidas and the use of layered Easter eggs, like referencing classic soccer culture, to appeal to fans on a deeper level. Russo noted that this method is akin to what brands like Taylor Swift use with Easter eggs, reinforcing that these strategies are powerful drivers of long-term brand attachment. The discussion concluded with a call for broader use of the XY Method, particularly in B2B and brand marketing, to cultivate more meaningful, loyalty-driven consumer relationships.