Latest Marketing & Advertising News
Google AI-Powered Ads Boost Brands' Online Sales by 80%
Google reports its AI-powered ad tools, including new formats in AI Mode and 'direct offers' pilots, have lifted online sales by 80% for some brands like E.l.f. Beauty, Chewy, and L’Oréal. The company is testing 'business agent' features allowing retailers like Poshmark and Reebok to customize AI search responses in their brand voice.
This counters early fears of AI chatbots threatening Google's ad dominance, with 2025 ad revenue hitting record highs.
Mondelez Overhauls $3.5B Digital Commerce Strategy for AI Search
Mondelez is restructuring its $3.5 billion digital commerce approach with three pillars: structured product knowledge, AI-native content, and performance measurement KPIs like visibility and sentiment. For cookie queries, Oreo appears in 70% of results, and 30% for broader snacks.
The shift addresses AI upending traditional search, treating it as a performance channel.
Brooks Running Launches 'Shine Under Pressure' Campaign with Cynthia Erivo
Brooks Running debuted a global campaign starring Cynthia Erivo training for the London Marathon, featuring video ads, social content, and podcast appearances. CMO Melanie Allen's expanded role focuses on international growth and retail experiences post-2025 record sales.
The brand is increasing upper-funnel investments in TV, sports partnerships like Seattle Kraken and Mariners.
Ricoh Launches RICOH Innovation Fund II for Startup Investments
Ricoh established its second CVC fund to expand investments in overseas startups, building on nine prior investments from Fund I. The initiative supports digital services transformation and new business creation aligned with its fiscal 2026 strategy.
It aims to enhance customer workplace value through collaborations in rapidly changing markets.
Publicis Groupe Acquires 160over90 to Scale Sports Marketing Platform
Publicis Groupe announced the acquisition of 160over90 to bolster its data-led sports and culture marketing platform globally and in APAC. The deal expands capabilities in sports marketing amid rising demand for data-driven strategies.
Google Tests New Ad Formats and Shopping Integrations in AI Search
Google is piloting 'direct offers' using Gemini models for personalized promotions in AI Mode based on user intent. Early adopters include major brands testing AI-driven shopping experiences.
This integrates ads seamlessly into conversational AI search.
Brooks Expands Marketing with Physical Stores and Sports Partnerships
Brooks plans physical retail stores and enhances brand presence in owned channels under CMO Melanie Allen. Recent partnerships include NHL's Seattle Kraken and MLB's Seattle Mariners.
Marketing spend shifts toward brand-building via TV and live sports.