Latest news
The proposed $110 billion Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger is emblematic of ongoing media consolidation, but its outcome remains uncertain due to litigation. Advertisers must plan based on current facts, prepare for multiple scenarios, evaluate implications client-by-client, anticipate competitive shifts, and embrace strategic partnerships.
Panera Bread announced that Andrew Rebhun will join as chief marketing officer on Aug. 17, succeeding Mark Shambura. Rebhun, who previously served as CMO at Cava and El Pollo Loco, will oversee brand, creative, digital, loyalty, and media, reporting to CEO Paul Carbone. The move comes as Panera pushes forward with its Panera RISE transformation plan targeting $7 billion in systemwide sales by 2028.
Dove is returning as the Official Underarm Sponsor of the US Open for a second year, launching a campaign that mixes sports and style. The initiative includes collaborations with photographers, a social series with the USTA, and support for women-owned bars, all aimed at promoting confidence and its antiperspirant products.
Cava reported a 9% increase in same-restaurant sales and 5.3% guest traffic growth in Q2 2026, beating Wall Street expectations despite a marketing budget of just over 1% of revenue. The chain's strategy emphasizes local creator partnerships, in-house content, and unique experiences like the Mediterranean Summer Supper Series with Airbnb.
Urban Outfitters has launched its first connected TV ad, "All Together Now," filmed at Rutgers University with 76 college students, spanning Netflix, Hulu, and social platforms, continuing its "Back-To-Campus" brand platform strategy.
CeraVe launched a social content series targeting tanning trends like 'tanmaxxing' popular among Gen Z, partnering with TV personality Tyler Cameron and dermatologist Dr. Chloe Goldman to promote sunscreen through creative content renovating a sorority house, emphasizing healthy sun habits.
Gap's fall campaign, centered on denim and titled 'Denim on your own,' features 'Obsession' star Inde Navarrette and singer Malcolm Todd, inspired by music videos, covering Robyn's 'Dancing on My Own.' The campaign launches Tuesday across digital, social, in-store, and out-of-home channels.
Rhone released a new advertising campaign, "A Love Letter to NYC," on Tuesday, aiming to connect the vibrant energy of New York City with the brand's enterprising spirit. The campaign marks the brand's shift from performance marketing to brand building, coinciding with a turning point in its DTC business and retail wholesale expansion. CMO Bethany Evans stated that the brand is evolving from a pure athletic wear positioning to comprehensive performance apparel for all aspects of daily life. The campaign spans omnichannel distribution and introduces media agency Kepler Group for the first time. Meanwhile, Rhone deepens its purpose-driven marketing through partnerships with sports leagues such as the LPGA and NBA, as well as its 12 Pursuits wellness framework.
Six months after implementing the Elevate28 transformation plan, WPP has shown signs of stabilization. Second-quarter comparable revenue (excluding pass-through costs) narrowed from a 6.7% decline in the first quarter to 2.8%, with the most notable improvement in its media business. Despite strong new business momentum, CEO Cindy Rose reiterated that positive growth may not be achieved until 2027.
Bazooka initiates a social-first, multi-brand marketing campaign featuring reality TV stars Jessi Draper and Mayci Neeley in a showdown to drive August sales and enhance brand cultural relevance.