Singapore – Around 9 in 10 of brand marketers globally or around 90% are planning a brand campaign over the next 12 months, noting that brand-building ensures lasting brand value and long-term growth. This is according to the latest data from CNN International Commercial (CNNIC), along with data and insights consultancy MTM.

The data notes that around 78% of marketers say “improving brand awareness and reputation” is their top marketing goal this year. Moreover, around 65% of brands often rely on an ‘always-on’ advertising to strengthen brand equity and achieve long-term growth.

In terms of what campaigns reign more,purpose-driven and storytelling campaigns take center stage, with 81% of marketers plan to incorporate community building and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) themes into their marketing efforts.

Moreover, the data highlights that news providers are still vital with 91% of marketers agreeing that news providers are essential for brand building, with 83% indicating that advertising during major world events or breaking news doesn’t harm their brand image.

Jo Tenzer, director of audience insight at CNNIC, said, “Marketers often hold one of the most innovative and challenging roles in business today and this study navigates some of the complexities of the industry. The findings from this study reveal that brand-building is recognized as an essential long-term goal for companies worldwide, with leaders increasingly aware of the need to embrace continuous, purpose-driven storytelling that genuinely engages consumers. It’s also clear that international news providers continue to play a crucial role in building trust and credibility for brands in today’s information-saturated landscape.”

India – Wunderman Thompson India expands its client roster after winning the brand building mandate of Tata Astrum Super, a brand of hot rolled sheets from Tata Steel – a company which is associated with the agency for more than 90 years. 

Within the long-term partnership, Wunderman Thompson India has been working on brand-building projects for Tata Steel Corporate, and other retail brands like Tata Tiscon, Tata Shaktee, Tata Kosh, Tata Pravesh, and Tata Wiron.

In the new mandate, Wunderman Thompson India will help Tata Astrum Super brand in building a competitive edge so it can command a premium over branded & unorganized players, forge bonds with channel partners, and connect with end users. The agency will also help in maintaining the brand’s promise to resonate with both fabricators and end users.

Vijay Jacob Parakkal, senior vice president & managing partner at Wunderman Thompson Kolkata, said that they are pleased to have Tata Astrum Super into the Wunderman Thompson brand family, and they are confident in giving justice to the new mandate that they will handle.

Earlier this year, Wunderman Thompson India also bagged the strategy and creative remit of Czech automobile brand ŠKODA.