As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the marketing landscape, one question looms large for brands and agencies, says Dewald Van Niekerk, Business Unit Director of Direct Sales at Mediamark: How do you build real, lasting connections with audiences in a world of instant metrics and information overload?

Shop! South Africa has confirmed an esteemed panel of judges for the 2025 Shopper Marketing Awards, now in its third year. As South Africa's leading trade association dedicated to enhancing shopper and retail environments, Shop! SA is committed to driving excellence, collaboration and innovation across the shopper marketing value chain.

Machine_, a creative solutions agency, has clinched Best Internal Email at the 2025 You Mailed It Email Marketing Awards for its 'Earth Hour' email campaign. This marks the second consecutive year the agency has taken home the accolade — cementing its position as a leader in purpose-driven internal communication.

South African Rugby has announced that its partnership with the Freddy Hirsch Group (FHG) has been renewed for four more years, while the agreement has been expanded to include all of South Africa's national rugby teams.

The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) South Africa has announced the 2025 Bookmark Awards finalists, marking the start of the second round of judging to honour the most impactful digital work shaping South Africa's creative future.

Curious about nostalgia or retro marketing? Venelize de Lange from media update explains what it is, why it works, who it works for and how to use it authentically. 

In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, data and automation, Absa has launched a new brand television commercial that redefines the intersection of technology and humanity. 

Standard Bank has launched its new 'Keep Growing' brand campaign, a powerful affirmation of the bank's purpose: "Africa is our home, we drive her growth". The advertising campaign, which launches with a brand advert in the South African market, champions the limitless potential of the African continent, its people, and communities.

Project Worldwide, a global agency holding company, has announced key leadership appointments designed to accelerate its growth and expand its footprint in the dynamic India / South Asia region. The network has named Rasheed Sait as Chief Growth Officer for India / South Asia, and Neha Lobo as the new Managing Director for GPJ India.

Unilever has announced the launch of Sketch Pro, an in-house centre for Graphic Design. Developed in partnership with Creative Production Leader IPG Studios, Sketch Pro is set to transform how Unilever's Home Care brands create content — delivering high-quality assets up to three times faster than traditional models.