Chips Ahoy links with ‘Stranger Things’ for AR game, themed cookie

The brand is inviting fans of the Netflix series to enter the Upside Down via on-pack QR codes to find cookies that translate into real-life prizes.

Volkswagen accelerates tech transformation with new digital AOR

CI&T was praised for its capabilities in generative AI and a product-first approach, which has aided in recent vehicle launches like the ID. Buzz.

Campaign Trail: Dude Wipes clears up the evolution of wiping

CMO Ryan Meegan explains how the flushable wipe brand’s latest effort represents a course correction from its previous ads. 

Over half of ad buyers are using generative AI for video creation: IAB

Small and midsize brands are more likely to use generative artificial intelligence for video while only 36% of large brands plan to do the same.

Publicis Groupe forecasts sunny H2 based on strong H1 new business gains

The company reported it had more than a dozen wins of material new business in the first half. 

How Sun Bum’s loyalty program leaves ‘punch card land’ and builds community

The marketer of sun care products built a platform that turns consumer actions and user-generated content into opportunities for brand engagement.

Don’t hold the pickles: Sonic’s CMO on going all-in on dining trend

CMO Ryan Dickerson discusses a Grillo’s partnership and ad shoot that involved over 2,000 real pickles as briny snacks win Gen Z’s favor.

Discord strengthens pitch to advertisers with new Orbs virtual reward

Users who complete branded experiences called Quests can earn Orbs that can be redeemed for exclusive items in the Discord Shop. 

How CeraVe built a $2B brand by blending education and entertainment

The L'Oréal-owned brand has become a global phenomenon by tapping both dermatologists and influencers to broadcast its bona fides.

Inside US Bank’s ad integration with Netflix’s ‘Happy Gilmore 2’

CMO Michael Lacorazza explains how teaming with the Adam Sandler sequel and production company Happy Madison helps the bank reach consumers.

Why JanSport revived its cringeworthy back-to-school ads to reach Gen Z

The backpack maker’s TikTok-focused effort returns for a second year after an initial run led to the brand’s highest grossing sales day in history.

3 takeaways from Omnicom’s Q2 earnings as IPG deal nears completion

The group’s branding and retail commerce segment experienced punishing declines as “uncertain market conditions” affected new launches.

Pacsun spotlights mall culture for denim campaign targeting Gen Z

“Denim Days” nods to the younger cohort’s interest in shopping malls and will include a presence around TikTok Shop’s Super Brand Day event.

KFC’s new take on Colonel Sanders is serious about its ‘Comeback Era’

The Yum Brands chain’s new campaign features gritty creative, developed with agency Highdive, that captures the high-stakes vibe as “The Bear.”

Olipop’s new ads show how the brand is winning people back to soda

Stars like Kristin Chenoweth and Joshua Jackson share their nostalgia for soda and love of Olipop in a campaign inspired by “Got Milk?” ads.

Target’s Roundel powers up offsite campaigns with AI-driven analysis

The Roundel media network, a bright spot in Target’s performance, will be the focus of investment throughout the year.

Sprite leans into Gen Z’s love for spicy flavors with global campaign

Along with out-of-home and social media activations, the Coca-Cola brand teamed with TikTok for an interactive filter for the “Hurts Real Good” push.

WPP names Microsoft vet CEO in sign of AI’s rising role in advertising

Cindy Rose currently helps lead enterprise tech sales at Microsoft and joins the agency as it tries to overcome client losses and worsening macro conditions.