|
FEBRUARY 2, 2026 |
|
In this edition: |
| |
| |
Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up
here. | | | |
|
TOP STORY |
|
|
|
“The industry needs to stop appropriating the word ‘community’ when they are really just talking about consumers on social media,” said Gabe Gordon, CEO of Reach Agency. |
|
When marketers attempt to build community, they’re chasing loyalty and long-term relevance. But when “building community” becomes a forced outcome, consumers can view it as desperation and look for connection elsewhere. |
|
|
|
| | | |
|
IN THE NEWS |
|
Paramount copies rival Netflix’s playbook with short-form, shoppable content – plus side-by-side viewing. Paramount will introduce a slate of new features to help Paramount+ compete with streaming giants like Netflix, according to an internal presentation cited by Business Insider. |
|
| |
Why WPP is rebuilding its production model for always-on marketing. WPP will consolidate its global production capabilities into a single integrated unit, WPP Production, to unify teams, platforms, and workflows under one structure. |
|
| |
Influencer ads emerge as buyers’ top ad priority for 2026. Creator ads rank highest among ad types buyers are most focused on increasing investment in for 2026, per the Interactive Advertising Bureau’s (IAB) 2026 Outlook Study. |
|
| |
Sports podcast consumption surges 358% after the game, per Spotify. Consumption also rises before games, climbing 172% above average in the lead-up, pointing to a growing window of opportunity for advertisers to reach engaged fans beyond live viewing. |
|
| | | |
|
ANALYSIS |
|
|
|
The Home Depot launched a new creator portal this week, a hub where creators can access content inspiration, campaign opportunities, and expertise to build content around home improvement, DIY projects, and decor tips. |
|
|
|
| | | |
|
PODCAST |
|
|
On today’s podcast episode, we discuss the three big questions surrounding Netflix right now: What are Netflix’s advertising expectations? What will actually happen with Warner Bros. Discovery? And more. Join Senior Director of Podcasts and host Marcus Johnson, along with Senior Analyst Ross Benes. Listen everywhere, and watch on YouTube and Spotify. | | |
| | | | | |