Branding Agency vs. DIY – What’s the Real ROI?

DIY branding is tempting. Canva is free. Fonts are everywhere. And everyone knows someone who “does logos on the side.” So why pay a branding agency?

Because good branding isn’t decoration—it’s business strategy.

The Hidden Costs of DIY Branding

Let’s be honest: most DIY branding doesn’t hold up. It might look okay for a while, but it rarely delivers where it counts—differentiation, customer trust, and market positioning. What you save upfront, you’ll likely spend later—in the time trying to figure it out, rebranding costs, missed opportunities from unclear messaging, and lost trust from inconsistent visuals.

According to a 2022 Lucidpress study, consistent branding can increase revenue by up to 33%. Most DIY setups don’t have brand guidelines, let alone consistency.

What You Actually Get from an Agency

Hiring a branding agency isn’t about “getting a nicer logo.”

It’s about gaining clarity on:

• What your business stands for

• Who your ideal customers are

• Why they should choose you over anyone else

A strategic brand builds loyalty, drives conversions, and sets the tone for all your marketing. At Shred Consulting, we don’t just make things look good—we make them work.

When DIY Might Be Enough

DIY branding can work as a temporary solution—especially if you're testing a new idea, validating a concept, or bootstrapping with minimal resources. But once you're moving past the early stages, it's time to think bigger.

If you're:

• Launching a business you plan to scale

• Trying to increase your prices or attract higher-end clients

• Pitching to investors or applying for funding

• Expanding into new markets or audiences

Then strong, strategic branding isn’t optional—it’s essential. At that level, your brand becomes a business asset, not just a visual.Think Long-Term

The question isn’t “Can I afford to hire a branding agency?” It’s: “Can I afford to blend in with the competition?”

Want a brand that earns trust and sells for you? Let's talk.