Monthly Archives: June 2023

How Empathy Can Boost a Brand

Advertising campaigns that make a clear, unambiguous promise to the customer and understand the human side of behaviour are more likely to drive brand health, market share, and long-term sales, says a new study from The B2B Institute, LinkedIn’s marketing think-tank, in partnership with the World Advertising Research Council. And that sentiment is finding increasing […]

Small Agencies Offer Big Benefits

A new generation of independent, locally owned communication agencies is rapidly rewriting the rules of the game as brands increasingly look for more personal attention, quicker work turnaround times and added value that goes beyond rigid time sheets. Retroviral, which counts among its clients the feminine hygiene brand Lil-Lets, Blue Ribbon bread and Ryobi power […]

Fast-Food Brands Prove Their Agility

Picture: REUTERS / MOE DOIRON   In the face of challenging market conditions, fast-food brands have demonstrated their resilience, according to the Kantar BrandZ Most Valuable Global Brands report for 2023. The annual report, which ranks the world’s top 100 brands, reveals that despite a 20% drop in the overall index compared with 2022, fast-food […]

Inside the Township Market

Spaza shops like this one in Walmer township, Gqeberha, are experiencing increased foot count. Picture: EUGENE COETZEE / THE HERALD Township residents are embracing local brands and prioritising value over loyalty, a new study shows. Increased internet connectivity is also opening doors to digital opportunities, allowing people to explore online entrepreneurship and supplement their incomes. […]

All I Find After the Love-And-Happiness Tomfoolery of Corporate Team-Building Is Inner Pique

To riff on the Groucho Marx observation, I would not want to be part of a team that would have me as a member. But somehow in this new age of contrived corporate collegiality we have no choice but to join them and participate in activities designed to promote and develop cohesion and cooperation. Some […]

Shift to Streaming Speeds Up

The marketing landscape is witnessing a rapid shift towards streaming platforms, with a new Nielsen study saying more than 80% of global marketers have incorporated them in their media plans. But despite a substantial allocation of advertising budgets towards this medium, many believe they are not seeing the true value of their investment in connected […]