Stakeholders interact with companies through multiple touchpoints including websites, reports, presentations, and social media. Yet, these are often created by different teams, leading to fragmented messaging. In 2026, expect a stronger push for strategic content planning that ensures:
The winners will be those who deliver impactful, consistent narratives across every platform.
There are three key areas that will dominate the conversation in 2026.
Over the past year, we’ve seen ESG criteria become a standard requirement in tenders and client requests. Agencies and partners are being asked to demonstrate their own credentials, from energy efficiency to data security.
At Black Sun, we’ve completed a double materiality assessment to map key impacts, risks, and opportunities. In 2026, we’ll roll out action plans with clear KPIs to embed sustainability into everything we do.
For clients, three trends stand out:
Sustainability isn’t just about reporting, it’s about telling a story that inspires action.
Regulation is really changing the game and it's forcing companies who operate in silos, to work together to think about how they will communicate their most material topics effectively. Technology is accelerating this shift:
Leaders will be those who connect everyday business decisions to measurable outcomes for people and communities.
2025 was the year of experimentation with AI; 2026 will be the year of real impact. Organisations will see:
But here’s the caveat: don’t go AI-first, go engagement-first. Use AI to remove drudgery and free up time for meaningful conversations. As AI search becomes ubiquitous, companies must ask:
Answer “yes” to all three, and you’ll be well-positioned for the AI-driven future.
2026 will be defined by integration, authenticity, and intelligent use of technology. Companies that align their communications, embrace sustainability, and leverage AI thoughtfully will lead the way in creating trust and delivering impact.
If you would like to speak to one of our experts about how to maximise your stakeholder engagement why not get in touch, we're here to help!
About Black Sun
Black Sun Global is a stakeholder advisory and engagement agency that's been driving transformation and positive change for ambitious brands for more than 20 years. With deep expertise in disclosure and reporting, ESG, sustainability, and digital engagement, we reshape how organisations connect with customers, investors, employees, and the wider world.
We are trusted partners to some of the most influential global organisations, sparking innovation and sustainable performance through our strategic insights, partnerships, and proprietary technologies.
As founders of the Positive Change Group, we are on a mission to create a new kind of stakeholder relations partner. Our world-class specialists work closely with executive leadership teams to protect reputations, inspire trust, and promote responsible business practices - building resilience and long-term value in a rapidly changing world.
For more information, please visit: www.blacksun-global.com
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