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Brand & reputation statistics

Your reputation is largely shaped before the first conversation. These figures show how reviews, star ratings and trust steer buyer choices, especially in B2B.

Last updated: · 8 verified statistics

97% Of consumers read online reviews about local businesses Reviews are no longer a nice-to-have but a standard step in the decision process, including for business purchases. Source: BrightLocal Local Consumer Review Survey (2026)
45% Of B2B buyers name review sites the most reassuring signal in an AI answer Now that buyers search using AI chatbots, citations from independent review sites carry more weight than your own sales story. Source: G2 Buyer Behavior Report (2026)
49% Trust online reviews as much as a personal recommendation The opinion of an unknown buyer weighs almost as heavily as a tip from someone they know. Source: BrightLocal Local Consumer Review Survey (2026)
68% Only use a business with an average of four stars or higher The bar is rising fast: last year this was still 55%. Below four stars, you simply lose two out of three buyers. Source: BrightLocal Local Consumer Review Survey (2026)
85% Of B2B buyers feel more positive about a supplier mentioned by an AI chatbot Your visibility and reputation in AI answers partly determine whether you make the shortlist, before the first contact even happens. Source: G2 Buyer Behavior Report (2026)
80% Trust the brands they use to do the right thing Brands score higher on this than businesses in general, media and government. Trust now weighs as heavily as price and quality. Source: Edelman Trust Barometer (2026)
89% Of consumers expect a response to their review Responding to reviews is not optional, it is expected. That silent gap is precisely your chance to stand out. Source: BrightLocal Local Consumer Review Survey (2026)
1 in 2 Assume the worst of a brand that stays silent on what is happening Silence is not read as neutral but as negative. A clear voice and a stated position build trust. Source: Edelman Trust Barometer (2026)

What do these figures mean for Belgian B2B companies?

The common thread is clear: your reputation is largely shaped before the first conversation. Buyers read reviews, check your star rating and form an opinion before they ever reach out. In B2B, with multiple decision-makers and long buying journeys, that independent proof often outweighs your own sales story.

That doesn’t mean chasing every star. It means being visible, findable and credible in the places where buyers judge you. Brand mentions on relevant sites and a recognizable, honest voice build trust that translates into more targeted branded search. And respond to reviews: 89% expect it, but almost nobody does it, so it’s an open opportunity.

Our approach stays the same: steer toward real customers and revenue, not a scoreboard. A strong reputation isn’t a goal in itself but a lever that makes your sales conversations easier and your customers more loyal.

Frequently asked questions

Do reviews really matter in B2B, or mostly for online shops? +

In B2B they matter heavily. For purchases involving multiple decision-makers and long buying journeys, buyers look for independent proof before they even talk to you. G2 finds that 45% of B2B buyers name review sites the most reassuring signal in an AI answer. Review sites and peer feedback often outweigh your own materials.

How many reviews do I need to be credible? +

There is no fixed number, and consumers are becoming more lenient about quantity. More important than volume is that your reviews are recent and genuine, and that you respond to them. A handful of honest, current reviews with tidy responses does more than dozens of old scores with no follow-up.

Should I respond to negative reviews? +

Yes. 89% of consumers expect a response, and a calm, honest reply to criticism shows future buyers how you handle problems. A good response often outweighs the complaint itself. Respond to positive reviews too, otherwise it looks selective.

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You may freely reuse these figures with attribution and a link to this page.

Source: Customer Impact, Brand & reputation statistics, https://www.customerimpact.be/en/marketing-statistics/brand-and-reputation/

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