Radio Story of The Week

Commercial radio is on the rise, with 40.5 million UK adults tuning in weekly, up from 39.1 million last year, according to RAJAR. It now holds a 55% share of listening hours, driven by networks like Global and Bauer. Online listening soared past FM and AM for the first time, capturing 28.1% of total listening. Global leads with 27.2 million listeners, while Bauer reaches 22.7 million. Radio ad spend forecasts rose by 5.5% for 2024.

Social Media Story of The Week

Reddit has launched Lead Gen Ads, enabling marketers to capture user information directly through in-app promotions. These ads feature a "Sign Up" button that directs users to a form, enhancing mobile experience with auto-filled email fields. Early testers reported a 30% reduction in cost per lead and a 25% increase in lead submissions. With new Zapier integration for CRM synchronisation, Reddit aims to expand its advertising capabilities and revenue potential for targeted community engagement.

Ad Creative Story of The Week

Olivia Wilde makes her automotive ad debut with Volkswagen's 'Water Girl,' directed in collaboration with agency Johannes Leonardo. The ad features a young girl filling bottles for her sister's football team, using a Volkswagen Atlas. This relatable storytelling contrasts typical car ads, highlighting everyday emotions. Developed by a predominantly female team, the ad emphasises diverse perspectives. According to Kantar, the ad enhances Volkswagen's appeal and ranks in the 59th percentile for engagement, potentially influencing consumer choices.