How Customer Trust Builds Great Brands — And Why UGC Matters More Than Ever

Why Customer Trust Is Your Most Valuable Marketing Asset

When it comes to influencing buying decisions, one type of content stands above everything else: customer-generated content (UGC). Reviews, photos, social media posts, unboxings, office snaps, all of it is seen as more authentic, credible and trustworthy than traditional advertising.

And the stats back it up:

• 93% of consumers prefer reading customer-created content over brand messaging
• 44% won’t read a sponsored post
• 71% trust sponsored content less than organic endorsements
• 87% trust ads more when they include verified customer ratings, even if they’re not 5 stars

Why? Because real people aren’t incentivised to say nice things. Their opinions feel honest, and honesty builds trust.

Why User-Generated Content Works So Well

Customer-created content helps brands:

• Stand out in crowded markets
• Build emotional connection
• Increase authenticity
• Boost brand awareness
• Drive engagement on social media
• Improve conversion rates
• Encourage new customers to try your product

UGC transforms your customers into your marketing team and the best part? It’s completely organic.

Case Study: The TransPennine Express Cupcake Launch — A Masterclass in UGC

Way back in 2016, TransPennine Express wanted to create excitement around the launch of their new franchise — and they wanted a memorable, shareable moment that would genuinely delight customers.

They turned to Print Cakes.

🚆 The Brief:

Create a fun, buzz-worthy way to reveal their new branding to the public.

🧁 The Solution:

Our bakers produced 6,000 branded cupcakes featuring their top-secret new logo. These were handed out at stations across the UK, surprising customers during their commute.

📸 The Result: A Social Media Explosion

Thrilled commuters took photos of their cupcakes and posted them across:

• Twitter
• Facebook
• Instagram
  
  

Their genuine excitement created:

• Huge organic brand reach
• Positive customer sentiment
• A wave of user-generated content
• Increased brand visibility
• A memorable moment associated with the new logo
• A feel-good buzz shared far beyond the stations
  
  

  

  

  

A small gesture created a big ripple effect, and remember this was 2016! That’s the power of UGC — and the power of a branded cupcake.

Why Edible Branded Gifts Work So Well

Branded cupcakes and biscuits aren’t just treats — they’re interactive marketing tools.

They’re:

• Photogenic
• Shareable
• Memorable
• Personal
• Emotion-driven
• Fun to receive
• Perfect for social media

When someone takes a photo of your branded cupcake and posts it online, your brand message instantly becomes more relatable and trustworthy.

And unlike branded pens or plastic freebies, an edible gift sparks genuine joy.

How Print Cakes Helps Brands Build Trust

At Print Cakes, we specialise in creating shareable, high-quality branded cupcakes and biscuits that make events and campaigns unforgettable.

Whether it’s for:

• Corporate events
• Client gifting
• Employee engagement
• PR launches
• Brand activations
• Awareness campaigns
• Celebrations or milestones

…our treats help brands stand out and leave a lasting impression.

Every cupcake is:

• Hand baked from scratch
• Topped with a premium edible logo
• Printed with the latest edible technology
• Delivered anywhere in the UK
• Fresh for at least 5 days

We’ve baked for everyone from Richard Branson, celebrating Virgin Money’s 20th Anniversary, to Nick Knowles on DIY SOS — and thousands of businesses of all sizes.

Want to Build Trust With Your Audience? Start With Something Delicious.

If you’re looking for a powerful way to generate UGC, create excitement, and strengthen customer trust, our branded cupcakes and biscuits are a proven (and delicious) choice.

🛒 Order branded cupcakes online at PrintCakes.co.uk

📩 Or email hello@printcakes.co.uk for a quote or bespoke campaign support.

We’re always happy to chat cake — and marketing.