The Advertising Association promotes the role and rights of responsible advertising and its value to people, society, businesses and the economy. We represent UK advertisers, agencies, media owners and tech companies on behalf of the entire industry, acting as the connection between industry professionals and the politicians and policy-makers.

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We run a number of events throughout the year, from our annual LEAD summit to the Media Business Course and regular breakfast briefings for our members. We are also the official UK representative for the world’s biggest festival of creativity – Cannes Lions.

Ad Matters 02.08.24

/ August 2nd 2024 / Mariella Brown
Industry News

New Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy gave her inaugural speech to industry in Manchester this week. From a stage in the Science and Industry Museum, she spoke about the importance of storytelling to our country and how we will all be a critical part of writing the next chapter of the UK’s history.

Incidentally this week, over at VCCP’s offices, we opened a new chapter for advertising, with the launch of a report from our AI Taskforce: ‘Advertising and AI – Showcasing Applications and Responsible Use’.

The new report is designed to provide an insight into how our industry is using AI and explores how we can tackle the challenges that come alongside its responsible use.

From case studies such as how AI is being used by the ASA in self-regulation, the report also includes a 12-point practical ‘Checklist for responsible AI adoption’ to tick through, which builds on the principles set by the IPA and ISBA.

It’s been a huge project – so big thanks to co-chairs Alex Dalman at VCCP and Yves Schwarzbart at Google, as well as all our members who have supported this work.

As our public policy and regulation director Konrad Shek said at its launch: the future of advertising lies in harnessing this technology while remembering our responsibilities. Wise words indeed.

Do download your copy of the report here – and we’re keen to hear your feedback by emailing aitaskforce@adassoc.org.uk.

Our must-reads:

  • In line with the launch of our new AI Taskforce Report, our very own Konrad Shek spoke all about the use of AI and its adoption. (The Media Leader)
  • What does Google’s cookie announcement really mean for those working in advertising? (Creative Salon)
  • Do marketers believe that AI can rival human creativity? Find out what Dentsu’s 2024 CMO Report says. (Campaign)
  • Last AI read for the day! Nvidia teams up with WPP to leverage AI to co-create generative 3D worlds for advertisers. (The Drum)

Our pick of ads

  • Our ad in the A is for Samsung’s ‘The Openness Medal’, featuring team GB’s teen skateboard sensation Sky Brown, by BBH.
  • ITV and Uncommon Creative Studio are encouraging everyone to spend more time with their friends with ‘Take a mate on a date’.
  • Bodyform and AMV BBDO are sparking open conversations about menstrual health with ‘Never just a period’.
  • Sky is promoting the launch of its Sky Sports+ service with a multichannel campaign made by its in-house creative team.

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, our member the Alliance of Independent Agencies has two places left for their fantastic Diploma in Strategy, Creativity and Communications which starts on 17 September. The 6-month programme gives delegates an unparalleled insight into what it takes to be an outstanding agency person of the future. We’ve secured Alliance member rates for those interested – head here to register or get in touch with suzanne@allindependentagencies.org with any questions!