It's launch day for many 2021 Christmas ads
John Lewis launch its celestial ad to show the magic of Christmas through the eyes of a crash-landed alien. M&S Food brings Percy Pig to life with a star-studded cast of Tom Holland and Dawn French. Jenna Coleman is the lead in Boots' Christmas ad as "Joy". Lego's Christmas ad mixes Star Wars with a fire fighting dragon and dancing cacti.
Why is this important?
After a heavily restricted Christmas 2020, the world is ready for the return of Christmas magic. John Lewis's iconic Christmas advert might feel a little early to some, however research shows that people are eager for Christmas to begin after the disappointing 2020 festive season.
Performance Max will include Smart Shopping and Local campaigns by 2022
Google has now confirmed that Performance Max campaigns will become available to all advertisers. Smart shopping and Local campaigns will also be rolled into Performance Max in 2022. These campaigns enable advertisers to place ads across all properties rather than creating specialised ads for specific channels. They can be used across Search, Discover, Display, Gmail, Maps and YouTube.
Why is this important?
Google has positioned this automated campaign to help advertisers stay ahead of trends by leveraging Google’s machine learning. The pandemic has disrupted consumer behaviour and many have had to adapt to new circumstances. Those currently relying on Smart Shopping and Local campaigns will have to test this new feature as they will both be rolled into Performance Max next year.
Instagram adds new features to celebrate Diwali
From Thursday 4th November Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhist communities will start celebrating Diwali which is sometimes referred to as a festival of light. Instagram is helping users take part in the celebration by adding new stickers and AR effects. For example, Instagram has worked with artist Neethi on three new Diwali stickers which users can add to their Stories, showcasing key parts of the festival.
Why is this important?
Diwali is one of the largest shared cultural and religious celebrations across the world, with approximately one billion marking the event. It’s important that a platform with such influence and reach shares and supports in the celebrations, highlighting what it means for those who celebrate it. The addition is also important as it gives another opportunity to local and relevant creators to share their creations on a larger scale to broader communities.
Campaign of the week - Don't be that guy campaign Police Scotland
Police Scotland has unveiled a straight-talking campaign that aims to reduce sexual violence toward women by encouraging men to have honest discussions about male sexual entitlement.
This powerful ad was released on social media targeting men. That Guy is asking Scottish men to talk to their friends, fathers, brothers and sons about behaviour that is damaging to women – as well as looking at themselves.
