Marketing Forecast from Ad-ology

A couple of weeks ago, the Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) reported that revenue from digital formats is increasing quickly this year. A close look at the change in radio audience and technology advances explains why. Consumers are using an ever growing range of devices to tune into their favorite stations, prompting radio operators to offer interactive entertainment in multiple formats.

The shift to store brand products, especially for groceries, has been well-documented during the recession. And even as the economy improves, some shoppers seem determined to stick with lower cost alternatives. Does this attitude extend to athletic footwear and apparel markets? Analysts at SportsOneSource Group recently published their findings on this topic.

Digital agencies supply critical expertise for many marketers. While these shops are relatively new, marketers have been paying them the same way they pay traditional agencies, using a fixed or labor-based fee arrangement. But the latest survey on this topic indicates changes are on the horizon.

The battle for the White House in 2012 has already begun with a seemingly endless supply of Republican party hopefuls tossing their hats into the ring. As we move through straw polls, caucuses, debates and primaries, ad spending will rise. Analysts at Moody’s point to several unique elements in this election cycle that are likely to drive the ad market to as much as 18% higher than the 2010 spending levels.

Media companies should know a little something about branding. After all, they sell advertising space to marketers who put forth their best promotional efforts to increase sales. But a blog post at JacobsMedia by Fred Jacobs, suggests that radio stations, in particular, need to examine what they’re doing and shift strategies to maximize the value of their brands.

As consumers continue to cut back their consumption of carbonated soft drinks (CSDs), they are turning to a variety of beverages. Manufacturers and retailers are both reporting a huge interest in teas and ready-to-drink (RTD) teas. In addition, manufacturers are picking up on the growing demand for organic teas and have started launching and marketing new product lines.