As the landscape of advertising continues to evolve, retail media networks are emerging as a dominant force, poised to surpass traditional TV ad spending. This shift not only redefines advertising strategies but also highlights the growing importance of first-party data and consumer engagement.
Stat of the Day
STAT: $200 billion (USD) global investment in retail media — WARC. This figure underscores the rapid growth and significance of retail media as a leading advertising channel.
Main Story
Retail media is on the brink of eclipsing TV ad spend as global investment nears $200 billion. According to WARC, this shift marks a significant change in how brands allocate their advertising budgets. Retail media networks (RMNs) are becoming essential for retailers, especially those with strong loyalty programs and first-party data, to capitalize on this trend. The move towards RMNs reflects a broader transformation in the advertising ecosystem, impacting retailers, brands, and ad tech vendors alike.
Quick Hits
- Bath & Body Works makes Grand Central smell like Fresh Balsam for the holidays — The retailer launches a festive sensory campaign at key locations.
- Wayfair pilots small-format store in Ohio — The online retailer tests a new store concept to enhance customer experience.
- Retail industry remains one of ‘hardest hit’ from 2025 job cuts — The sector continues to face significant layoffs amid economic challenges.
- Chewy Buys Horse Health Brand SmartEquine — Chewy expands its portfolio with the acquisition of a specialized pet health brand.
- Retail Technology News: October update - Chain Store Age — A roundup of the latest advancements and trends in retail technology.
- Creative Realities Closes Acquisition of Cineplex Digital Media - The Manila Times — A strategic acquisition enhances Creative Realities' digital media capabilities.
- Training Without Consent is Risky Business: AI Accountability and Data Protection Act proposed — New legislation aims to address data privacy and AI ethics in retail.
Sources
- Bath & Body Works makes Grand Central smell like Fresh Balsam for the holidays
- Wayfair pilots small-format store in Ohio
- Retail industry remains one of ‘hardest hit’ from 2025 job cuts
- Chewy Buys Horse Health Brand SmartEquine
- Retail Technology News: October update - Chain Store Age
- Retail Media Set to Overtake TV Ad Spend as Global Investment Nears $200bn — WARC - Marketing Edge
- Creative Realities Closes Acquisition of Cineplex Digital Media - The Manila Times
- Training Without Consent is Risky Business: What Business Owners Need to Know About the Proposed AI Accountability and Data Protection Act