Ad Matters 09.08.2024

Before we begin, it has undoubtedly been a heavy week for UK society. As we approach the weekend, there are signs that a force for good is emerging – with communities coming together and hope triumphing over division. Firstly, we would like to signpost LinkedIn posts by the IPA and industry charities MEFA and NABS. These reflect on the riots and those affected by racism, by sharing how we can prioritise mental wellbeing and the safety of our colleagues. A good place to start.

Some of the best demonstrations of coming together have been through the Olympics, including team GB’s display this week. Whether it’s the teamwork of our gold men’s freestyle swimmers, last night’s nail-biting display from heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson or skateboarder Sky Brown who featured in our ad in the A last week by Samsung and overcame injury to achieve a bronze.

As we prepare for another global competition, we are pleased to share the SXSW Austin PanelPicker is now open, and we’re rallying the UK advertising community to take to the main stage. Our International Trade Director, Aisling Conlon, along with members of the UK Advertising Export Group (UKAEG), have put forward some exciting proposals that need your support. Voting takes just 5 minutes and is open to the global community until 20 August. Head here to vote, and if you want to see your company represented at SXSW next March, be sure to follow UK Advertising on LinkedIn for updates on how you can get involved starting in September.

Our must-read articles/listens:

• A big step for sustainable production. The AdGreen carbon calculator has undergone a significant transformation and now features virtual production and cloud storage. (LBB)
• This piece looks at how agencies up and down the country responded to the riots to help keep their staff safe. (The Drum)
• The Campaign Podcast provides a comprehensive digest of this week’s news. (Campaign)

Our pick of ads:

• Breast Cancer Now highlights difficult conversations with ‘Left unsaid’ by BMB.
• Currys, with the help of AMV BBDO, has launched a new campaign particularly aimed at alleviating customers’ tech stress in ‘laptop rage’.
• The Archewell Foundation is advocating for safer social media use in this campaign by M&C Saatchi.
• Thomas Cook and the Marine Conservation Society are spotlighting the environmental impact of abandoned inflatables with the help of McCann Birmingham.

Dates for your diary:

• Our Head of Policy and Government Affairs, Chris Walker, will be sharing exclusive insights into the Labour party conference at Adwanted Events’ The Future of Media Manchester on 26 September! Register here.
• We are delighted to bring LEAD Scotland to Glasgow on 10 October. Book your tickets here.

And finally, we’re pleased to expand our Front Foot community with a warm welcome to the challenger agency for challenger brands – VCCP Media.