Ad Matters 06.09.2024

Sometimes the stars align and I have to confess it feels like this has been one of those weeks. Firstly, it has had a proper ‘Back To School’ feel about it, with many people returning, tanned and rested from their summer breaks, while the rhythm of daily life shifts to the ring of the school bell. So, it was both well-planned and fortuitous that we held our President’s Reception this week (bringing everyone together after weeks apart – photos here) and also launched our new Training Hub.

It was marvellous to see lots of our members at the Snap HQ on Tuesday evening and to hear from our President, Alessandra Bellini, as she presented a preview of the Training Hub. This has been a labour of love for our AA team, working in partnership with the brilliant Adwanted crew – a centralised resource of the very best professional training courses and qualifications that support career progression in our industry.

It was also (sniff) our President’s final reception as she finishes her 3-year tenure in the role. If you need reminding why she has been such a fantastic President for us and ambassador for the UK advertising industry, look no further than this article in Creative Salon.

Our must-reads

• It’s been a huge week for our talent workstream. Marketing Week also released the shortlist for our 2024 Talent Trailblazer Award which we’ve partnered on. (Marketing Week)
• Wondering what the rest of 2024 has in store for marketers? From the upcoming government budget to the latest trends in media. (Creative Salon)
• Why is green is the new pink? Pearl & Dean’s Clare Turner talks about cinema’s next blockbuster Wicked the Musical, and its opportunities for brands. (Creative Brief)
• It might only be September, but Christmas news is coming… The first hints about the John Lewis ad have been dropped. (Campaign)

Our pick of ads:

• Our Ad in the A is the Scottish government’s ‘Rethink dementia’, created by Leith, which aims to challenge misconceptions about the disease.
• Virgin Media’s new campaign, created by VCCP, sees a walrus cruising in a speedboat.
• KitKat has launched a global campaign titled “Break Better,” by VML, focusing on the importance of taking higher-quality breaks in today’s fast-paced world.
• Tesco has revamped its F&F Home range with ‘Fashion now does homeware’ by BBH London.
• Morrisons is promoting its loyalty scheme with ‘Pay less with MoreCard’ by Leo Burnett UK.

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.

We’re always on the lookout for examples of where advertising makes a positive economic and social contribution. It really helps to have current case studies when talking with policy decision-makers. So, for all those doing great things with newsbrands, make sure you get your entries into the Newsworks Awards 2024 – full details here. Finally, talking of making a positive impact, a big Ad Matters welcome to our newest Front Foot members, Digitas – you can find out more about their work here