The AA team started the week with a guided tour of the Palace of Westminster, followed by refresher training on the machinations of government. Representing our industry in the corridors of power is at the centre of our work, so it was a fascinating way to kick off the week. The tour took place in the House of Commons, the House of Lords and other incredible rooms where political leaders have met, debated and decided for centuries. From there, we walked into Portcullis House and had a run through of how a question, a statement or a piece of evidence in a consultation might one day turn into a policy written into law. Fascinating, and a welcome reminder of the importance of democracy and the process that underpins it. Currently, our government affairs team are in the midst of the party conference season and regularly visit the Palace. We often create opportunities for members to join us, attending dinners, debates and events so if this is something you would like to know more about, please get in touch.
Our pick of the ads:
- Our Ad in the A is McCann London’s “Eat for Joy” for Mindful Chef. The new brand platform explores the benefits that come from eating real whole foods.
- T&P has worked with Argos to create ‘Mafia Bosses’, a new campaign featuring their mascots Connie and Trevor, who are on a mission to let everyone know that Argon sells more than just toys.
- Primark’s new campaign ‘That’s Kinda Game-Changing’ for its activewear collection was developed by VCCP and aims to prove that you don’t have to break the bank for high quality.
- ITV has collaborated with EssenceMediacom for a King’s Cross takeover featuring iconic ITV women. The activation is in support of their ‘There’s No Place Like ITV’ brand platform launched in January.
Our must-reads:
- Clearcast has expanded into digital advertising by launching AI pre-screening tools and services for digital and non-linear ad campaigns. (Media Leader)
- The impact of AI on SMEs was discussed, as although the advertising industry is seeing rapid change, strict rules surrounding transparency and compliance need to be adhered to. (BBC)
- Outsmart has found that the public is unaware that there are clear public benefits from the millions of pounds invested each year in outdoor advertising in towns and cities across the UK. (Outsmart)
- With the number of employees in adland aged 25 and under having fallen by 19%, inclusion leads from the IPA, dentsu, WPP and Croud emphasise the importance of encouraging entry-level talent. (Campaign)
Dates for your diary:
- Future of Media Manchester is returning on 17 September, bringing together 600+ people shaping the future of commercial media from across the industry. They’re offering 30% off the first 30 tickets using code ADASSOCIATION_PARTNERFOMM26. Get your tickets here.
- The renowned IPA Effectiveness Conferencereturns on 7 October in Shoreditch and online, bringing together diverse opinions and top strategists and industry leaders. Discounts are applied for bookings of 5 or more in-person tickets.
- Our flagship summit, LEAD, will return to the QEII Centre in Westminster on the morning of 28 January Help shape the agenda by taking 2 minutes to fill in our survey here.
And finally, it was the NABS Golf Open yesterday at Foxhills Golf Club where, for the first time, Team AA entered a 4-ball. I was joined by three of our golf-playing members, Talon’s Global CEO, Sue Frogley, and Global Comms Director, Mandy Rayment, and Evolve’s International Commercial Director, Laura Learmouth.
It was a cracking day with some fantastic golf shots played by all including impressive drives on the 6th hole – the setting for the Ladies Longest Drive. Mandy came out on top, but not after a stellar attempt to beat her by Sue! This year’s Golf Open had a record number of entries and all the money raised goes to our brilliant industry charity, NABS. If you play a bit of golf and fancy a fun day out, I can highly recommend this – bookings for 2027 open soon.
