Business Growth Story of the Week
Sainsbury's reported a significant profit increase to £701m, surpassing forecasts with a 1.6% growth. Bolstered by its Nectar loyalty scheme, the UK's second-largest grocer gained 5 million digital customers, boosting its market share to 15.3%. CEO Simon Roberts highlighted investments in marketing and digital capabilities, including a focus on Argos's online growth, as key drivers of the supermarket's strategy to enhance its retail media offer and maintain competitive pricing.
Brand Ai Story of the Week
Coca-Cola launches Coke SoundZ, an AI-powered instrument that plays "uplifting sounds" from its Zero Sugar drink. Available as a digital app and a physical bottle-shaped device, it's part of Coca-Cola's $1.1 billion AI partnership with Microsoft. The initiative reflects Coca-Cola's continued investment in generative AI to enhance consumer experiences and marketing strategies.
Social Media Story of the Week
Meta's Threads app has reached 150 million monthly active users, showing robust growth as it aims to provide a more positive space for public conversations compared to Twitter and Elon Musk's X. Despite X's stagnant user base, Threads continues to attract new users and may soon introduce advertising as it approaches 200 million users, potentially by October. The platform's non-political focus and community incentives are key elements of its expanding appeal.
