The ROI of PR: Why Earned Media Still Beats Paid Ads in 2025

In 2025, paid ads are everywhere. You scroll past them on Instagram, skip them on YouTube, and block them in your browser. While they may grab attention for a second, they rarely build trust. That’s where PR steps in. The ROI of PR is rooted in something far more valuable than impressions , it’s about credibility, relevance, and lasting brand impact.

When your brand earns a feature in a trusted media outlet or receives an organic mention from a creator, that exposure doesn’t just create visibility. It builds belief. That’s the core of earned media , it’s not bought, it’s given. And that perceived authenticity is what sets PR apart in a world where audiences are growing more skeptical of paid content.

The ROI of PR also comes from longevity. An ad vanishes when the budget ends. A press mention lives on in Google results, on social feeds, in investor decks, and in customer conversations. It becomes part of your brand’s digital footprint. Even a single successful gifting campaign can lead to weeks , even months , of organic reach, repurposed content, and increased credibility across channels.

Unlike performance ads, PR compounds. One story can unlock more opportunities: new customers, stronger SEO, influencer partnerships, and inbound interest from the media. Over time, this adds up to higher ROI with lower spend. While ads deliver short-term gains, PR builds long-term equity.

Trust is another key part of the ROI equation. According to research, customers are nearly twice as likely to trust an editorial article or organic influencer mention than a paid advertisement. That trust translates into higher conversion, stronger brand recall, and more loyal communities , especially for new or premium brands.

At Glad U Came, we’ve led over 400 PR and influencer campaigns across industries. From beauty and fashion to wellness and F&B, we’ve seen one thing hold true , the brands that consistently invest in PR grow stronger, smarter, and more respected over time. Because they aren’t just chasing clicks. They’re building connection.

PR doesn’t just support awareness. It strengthens your entire marketing ecosystem. The feature becomes a LinkedIn post. The influencer shoutout becomes an Instagram highlight. The founder quote turns into website copy. Every piece of earned media multiplies in value when it’s repurposed right.

If you’re thinking long term and want to build a brand that people talk about , not scroll past , it’s time to invest in the ROI of PR.

We’re here when you’re ready to grow your brand with purpose. 📞 +91 9321218680