The rumour mill is spinning, and this time, it’s Elon Musk in the spotlight—again. Reports suggest the tech mogul might be eyeing TikTok’s US operations, with Chinese officials allegedly considering selling the platform to Musk as a way to avoid an outright ban in the US. TikTok, of course, has dismissed the claims as baseless, calling them “pure fiction”, but the prospect of Musk entering the mix has already set tongues wagging.
TikTok, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, has been at the centre of a geopolitical tug-of-war. The US government has raised concerns over national security, alleging that TikTok could funnel user data to the Chinese government or be used as a propaganda tool. With over 170 million users in the US alone, banning TikTok—set to take effect on Sunday—would leave a massive void in the social media landscape unless ByteDance agrees to sell its American operations.
ByteDance has appealed the ban to the US Supreme Court, but analysts believe a sale might be its only viable option. Enter Elon Musk, the self-styled disruptor of industries, who has reportedly been floated as a potential buyer according to Bloomberg and the Wall Street Journal.
If Musk does make a move on TikTok, it could be a savvy addition to his growing social media portfolio. After buying Twitter (now X) in 2022 for a whopping $44 billion, Musk has made it clear he wants to redefine social media. TikTok’s dominance in short-form video could perfectly complement X’s broader vision of a content and communications hub.
Wedbush analyst Dan Ives estimates TikTok’s US operations could sell for $40 billion to $50 billion, putting it in the same league as Musk’s X acquisition. Ives also points out Musk’s strong business ties to China through Tesla, which generates 23% of its quarterly revenue from the country. Those relationships could be a critical factor in navigating the high-stakes negotiations.
A Musk-led TikTok would undoubtedly shake up the social media industry. TikTok’s addictive algorithm and immense popularity make it a crown jewel for any tech giant. For Musk, this acquisition wouldn’t just bolster his influence in the sector; it would place him at the forefront of how millions of users consume and create content every day.
But not everyone is thrilled about the idea. Critics have already flagged Musk’s tendency to monopolise industries and his cosy relationship with incoming US President Donald Trump, who recently appointed Musk as co-chair of the new Department of Government Efficiency. While TikTok has denied the rumours, calling them speculative at best, the buzz surrounding Musk’s potential involvement isn’t going away anytime soon.
Down under, TikTok has its own set of challenges. In 2023, the Australian government banned the app from government-issued devices, citing concerns over data security and potential foreign interference. This aligns with similar moves by the US and Europe, reflecting a broader global scepticism about TikTok’s Chinese ownership.
For everyday Aussies, TikTok’s possible upheaval could be a game-changer. The app is a go-to platform for millions of users, from influencers and small businesses to big brands leaning into its unmatched engagement. A sale or major operational shift could force these users to rethink their strategies. Advertisers and content creators reliant on TikTok’s algorithm might have to scramble to maintain their reach.
Then there’s the question of data. Australia’s stringent privacy laws would likely come into play if Musk took the reins. Policymakers would scrutinise how Australian user data is managed under Musk’s ownership, especially given his free speech stance and preference for minimal content moderation. Could this clash with local regulations? It’s a question that may need answering sooner rather than later.
WPP insists that a four-days-a-week return to the office is “the right policy for the long-term interests of the company as a whole.”
In a statement to Mediaweek, a WPP spokesperson said: “We believe this is the right policy for the long-term interests of the company as a whole, knowing that it won’t be popular with everyone. And we will take the time to implement it in a collaborative and pragmatic way with our teams.”
This comes after concerned WPP employees hit back at CEO Mark Read and the global directive with a Change.org petition.
The WPP staffers called the company’s mandate a “step backwards in supporting employee wellbeing and work-life balance”. They called out the advertising company for “citing anecdotal data that either does not exist or has been misrepresented.”
“We call on Mark Read and the decision-making body at WPP to reconsider this mandate and adopt a policy that respects and prioritises the well-being and preferences of its employees. It’s time to move towards a future of work that’s flexible, mindful, inclusive, and evidence-based.”
The petition has also launched a short and anonymous survey asking responders about the effectiveness of returning to the office, the impact on growth and employee engagement.
The petition, which is open for people outside the organisation to sign, has now gained more than 13,000 signatures since its launch on 9 January.
The launch of the Change.org petition comes after Mark Read addressed the focus on the culture of WPP in an internal memo to the company’s staff.
“I believe that we do our best work when we are together in person. It’s easier to learn from each other, it’s a better way to mentor colleagues starting out in the industry, and it helps us win pitches as a truly integrated team,” he said.
Read said that data from across the WPP agencies indicated higher levels of office attendance were associated with stronger employee engagement, improved client survey scores and better financial performance.
“For all these reasons, spending more time together is important to all of us, and we are making a change to help that happen. From the beginning of April this year, the expectation across WPP will be that most of us spend an average of four days a week in the office.”
“There will be a clear process to request additional flexibility — including for those with caring responsibilities, health issues and other considerations. Some roles that have always been fully or largely remote will continue as they are.”
The new policy will come into effect from April, allowing WPP staffers to the time to make necessary arrangements and to adjust to new routines.
iHeart has retained its title as Australia’s number-one Podcast Network, according to the December Podcast Ranker, reaching 6.4 million monthly listeners and delivering 21.7 million downloads.
This marks a 56-month streak for iHeart atop the Podcast Publisher rankings.
iHeart secured 45 titles in the Top 200, including Casefile True Crime (#2, #1 True Crime Podcast), Life Uncut (#9, #1 Relationship Podcast), and The Kyle & Jackie O Show at #39,
ARN’s head of digital audio, Corey Layton, told Mediaweek the achievement is down to “the entire team and all our partners”.
“It’s an exciting feat”.
A recent partnership with BBC Studios has bolstered iHeart’s offering, bringing premium BBC content to an audience of 900,000 Australians.
Layton added: “We are always looking at new opportunities. With the BBC, just to have them part of the ranker and for advertisers to be able to see how strong their slate is.”
Louise la Grange, SVP at BBC Studios, said, “It’s great to see Australian audiences connecting with our diverse lineup, from trusted news to unique and engaging storytelling.”
Seven BBC titles debuted in the December ranker, led by Global News Podcast at #33 (170,686 listeners). Other notable entrants include The Infinite Monkey Cage (#86), You’re Dead to Me (#131), and Desert Island Discs (#196).
Despite the success, Layton revealed to Mediaweek that being #1 comes with added pressure, and rather than basking in the afterglow of success, his team are focused on fulling embracing and engaging with a “rapidly changing industry”.
“It’s already changed so much over the past few months,” he said. “You never know what’s around the corner and, even though its cliche, it’s a marathon not a sprint.”
As for what else iHeart has in store for Australian audiences in 2025, Layton remained coy, teasing that there “more exciting things to come”.
Pictured: Corey Layton
Sydney’s 2DAY FM has axed its networked weekend breakfast show, leading to speculation about a potential breakfast slot shake-up.
Emma Chow, co-host of the Mike E & Emma Show, confirmed the duo’s split in a heartfelt social media post, announcing, “After almost 14 years, the Mike E & Emma journey has come to an end.”
Listeners last heard the pair in December, marking the final broadcast of their national weekend breakfast program.
Radio duo Mike E and Emma.
The Mike E & Emma Show first hit the airwaves in 2011 on ARN’s 96.1 Edge. After a decade at ARN, the duo departed in December 2021, joining Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) and expanding their reach to 2DAY FM, SCA’s DAB channels, and streaming platforms under the RnB Fridays umbrella.
In August 2022, the show shifted to nights, stepping in after Dave Hughes, Ed Kavalee, and Erin Molan exited 2DAY FM.
In her Instagram post, Chow paid tribute to listeners writing: “We were babies when we first started at The Edge, and I am so incredibly grateful for and proud of every single second we did of radio together.
“Most of all, thank YOU for listening and growing up with us.”
Mediaweek has reached out to both Chow and Etheridge for comment.
TikTok Australia has launched its new, dedicated STEM feed to help answer burning questions in the field and inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, and doctors.
Over 500 Aussie STEM creators will feature on TikTok’s STEM feed, rolling out this month, including author of 48 books Dr Karl Kruszelnicki (@drkarl), astrophysicist Dr Kirsten Banks (@astrokirsten), and microscopic interrogator Walt Carroll (@oneminmicro). They’ll appear alongside more than 7,000 STEM creators from around the world, including renowned international institutions such as the American Museum of Natural History (@naturalhistorymuseum), National Geographic (@natgeo), and New Scientist magazine (@newscientist).
“Science tells us that coffee increases your life expectancy, but doesn’t work chemically in your body for the first two hours after you wake up. Science gave us penicillin which, by itself, increased life expectancy by 15 years! Science helps us better understand our daily lives and we need to elevate credible, quality, and fact-checked information,” said Dr Karl.
“On TikTok, I love sharing the awe and wonder of science with people. For me, one surprising change is that the average age of my audience is getting younger. The STEM feed makes it easier to find enriching, educational videos, and I’m confident it will inspire random folk to learn about subjects which are vital for Australia’s future.”
TikTok has partnerships with independent organisations Common Sense Networks and Poynter Institute as part of a triple-layer fact-checking process to help ensure the reliability of the high-quality STEM content being shared.
After videos or accounts are identified by TikTok, the organisations assess the content to ensure that it’s appropriateness of the content and the reliability of information presented before it’s featured on the STEM feed. If it does not pass all three checkpoints, it will not be eligible.
Simon Bates, head of content for TikTok Australia and New Zealand, said: “More than 8.5 million Aussies use TikTok to discover, be entertained, or learn, and our dedicated STEM feed makes it easier to find enriching, educational content on TikTok. It also gives creators and leading Australian organisations the opportunity to have their research seen around the world.”
To celebrate, TikTok’s Summer of STEM launches this morning at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s recently re-opened ‘Day and Night on the Reef’ – a 1.7 million litre oceanarium home to over 400 creatures.
Laura Simmons, Merlin Entertainment’s head of conservation, welfare, and education, said: “From breeding leopard sharks and endangered White’s seahorses to the penguin ‘pebble season’, SEA LIFE Sydney prides itself on teaching people about our incredible ocean creatures. Now with our videos featured on TikTok’s STEM feed, even more people from Australia, and globally, will learn about our important research and conservation efforts.”
As part of the Summer of STEM, the Australian Museum (@australianmuseum) will be taking Aussies behind the scenes at the country’s first museum, and its extraordinary collection of 22 million specimens and objects as well as its scientific discoveries, on TikTok LIVE throughout February.
“The Australian Museum is world famous for its incredible and immersive exhibitions and events that highlight the wonder of the world around us,” said Dr Jodi Rowley, curator of amphibian and reptile conservation biology at the Australian Museum.
“What many people don’t know, however, is that behind the scenes the Museum also has a team of scientists who uncover hundreds of new species each year and conduct scientific research to better understand and respond to challenges facing our planet. Working with TikTok’s STEM feed means we can share these fascinating finds in an engaging and compelling way.”
As summer is also bush fire season, the NSW Rural Fire Service (@nswrfs) will be the first emergency service in the world to be featured on TikTok’s STEM feed, sharing the science of firefighting, the importance of hazard reduction, and how their aerial firefighting fleet operates.
“It doesn’t matter if you live on the NSW coast or in western Canada, bush fires can have a devastating impact on communities worldwide. I’m proud our world-leading firefighting experts and efforts will be elevated on TikTok’s STEM feed as another way we can help the community to live bush fire ready,” Rob Rogers, commissioner of the NSW RFS, said.
As the STEM feed rolls out, other Australian organisations including the University of Melbourne (@unimelb) and Gilmour Space Technologies will be showcased to Australian TikTok users and the world. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics content has grown by 35% on TikTok since the STEM feed launched in other markets, including the US, Canada, the UK, and most countries across Europe. 1 in 3 young people on TikTok visit the STEM feed on a weekly basis in regions where it is available.
Just mere minutes after Mediaweek had announced whispers that Hamish Macdonald would be taking over the Mornings program on 702 ABC Radio Sydney in 2025, Aunty confirmed the news.
His appointment follows the axing of former host Sarah Macdonald (no relation). Hamish, 43, will present the show from Monday to Thursday, with his first shift starting next Monday.
In a written statement, Hamish was quick to pay tribute to his predecessor.
“First and foremost, I’d like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of Sarah. I know these are big shoes to fill,” Hamish said.
“I’m looking forward to putting my head down, getting to work from Monday, and serving the wonderful 702 audience in what will be a huge year of news for Sydney.”
The decision to terminate Sarah was met with shock, including from the host herself, who addressed the news during one of her shows.
“In terms of disappointment, I’m not going to be on the radio with you next year. The ABC has decided not to renew my contract here at Mornings,” she said.
Nine Entertainment Co. has appointed former News Corp Australia and Foxtel CEO Peter Tonagh as an independent non-executive director.
Tonagh has held several key roles during his time at both News Corp Australia and Foxtel, including serving as CEO. He is currently the chair of Quantium, Australia’s leading data and analytics company, as well as GTN Limited, Bus Stop Films, and Honey Insurance.
Until recently, Tonagh also served as deputy chair of the ABC, a position he has since stepped down from.
In a written statement, Nine Chair Catherine West said: “I am delighted to have someone of Peter’s calibre and experience join the Nine Board.”
She added: “With his extensive career in media and in data and digital businesses, I am confident Peter will prove a valuable addition to the Nine Board, not only for Nine’s contemporary business but also for our strategic aspirations for the future. I look forward to Peter making a strong contribution to Board deliberations.”
Tonagh expressed enthusiasm for his new role, stating: “I am looking forward to working with the Board and management to ensure shareholders benefit from the ongoing strength of Nine’s position.
“I am passionate about the media and its critical role in a democratic Australia – about the future of journalism, the opportunities of video, and the further potential of digital marketplaces.”
His appointment comes amidst a significant shake-up at the company following an independent review of Nine’s workplace culture.
Picture: Peter Tonagh
Suntory BOSS Coffee has partnered with YouTube star Andy Hearnden in a new campaign from independent creative agency It’s Friday.
The chef and social media sensation, best known as Andy Cooks, has teamed up with Suntory BOSS Coffee to celebrate the bold ambition fuelled by Suntory BOSS Coffee across Australia and New Zealand in a new campaign created by agency It’s Friday.
As a culinary creator with over 4.2 million Instagram followers, a cookbook, and 5 million YouTube subscribers, Andy knows the value of hard work backed up by unwavering ambition.
The campaign showcases his inspiring career journey and highlights Suntory BOSS Coffee as the ambitious coffee made for ambitious people – wherever they may be. Brewed hot and chilled fast, this distinctive beverage is crafted to provide a quality, refreshing coffee anytime, anywhere.
“I’ve been a Suntory BOSS Coffee fan for years, so getting to partner with them was a no-brainer,” Hearnden said of the partnership. “The Iced Long Black has always been my favourite—it has that real coffee kick I need to keep up with everything I’m working on. I’m thrilled to be working together to share the ambition and great taste that Suntory BOSS Coffee is all about.”
Hearnden’s passion and determination aligns with Suntory’s ethos of always striving for what’s next. Whether he’s crafting culinary content, testing recipes, or sharing new cooking techniques, Andy will have a Suntory BOSS Coffee by his side to keep him fuelled and focused.
Morgan Loveridge, head of oceania market execution – Suntory BOSS Coffee, said: “We’re excited to team up with someone who truly knows the power of ambition and the taste of success. Andy doesn’t just represent great food; he’s a testament to relentless drive and creativity—values at the heart of Suntory BOSS Coffee.”
Vince Lagana, CCO of It’s Friday, added: “As someone who knows the importance of both taste and ambition, Andy’s goals and drive align perfectly with Suntory BOSS Coffee’s ambition to help ambitious workers keep achieving.”
The campaign will appear across social, digital, and OOH.
Credits
Client: Suntory BOSS Coffee
Creative Agency: It’s Friday
Production Company: Good Oil
Director: Adam Stevens
Executive Producer: Sam Long
Producer: Clare Shervington
Post Production: The Editors
Editor: Mark Burnett
Sound and Music: Squeak E. Clean
Photography: Juliet Taylor
–
Top image: Andy Hearnden
Malaysia Airlines has ushered in the new year with its global “Time For” marketing campaign, designed to inspire travellers worldwide to embrace the joy of discovery and make 2025 a year of unforgettable adventures. The campaign celebrates travel and positions Malaysia as a premier gateway to Asia and beyond, aligning with the broader “Visit Malaysia 2026” initiative.
Highlighting its commitment to innovative marketing, Malaysia Airlines has rolled out prominent activations, including eye-catching tram wraps in Melbourne and branded taxis and buses in the United Kingdom. These efforts aim to spotlight Malaysia on the global stage, showcasing the country’s vibrant culture and diverse experiences.
To celebrate the launch, Malaysia Airlines has also unveiled an exclusive global sale, offering savings of up to 30% on fares to over 60 destinations.
All-in return economy fares start from just AUD $649*, with the sale running until 22 January 2025.
The Australian leg of the campaign debuted in Melbourne on 21 December 2024, with the unveiling of a fully wrapped “Time For” tram and a dynamic activation at Southern Cross Station. The event, developed and executed by The Brag Media, brought Malaysia Airlines’ renowned hospitality to life with cabin crew on-site to welcome Melburnians and showcase the airline’s unique offerings. The Brag Media also handled the content production and media strategy, ensuring the campaign connected meaningfully with Australian audiences. Adding to the excitement, the event featured a giveaway of two return tickets to popular destinations like Da Nang, Kolkata, Paris, and various Malaysian cities.
Dersenish Aresandiran, chief commercial officer of airlines at Malaysia Aviation Group, said: “Australia is a key market for us, and this activation marks an exciting chapter here. Our ‘Time For’ campaign is more than a call to travel — it’s an invitation for the world to rediscover Malaysia and explore the best of Asia and beyond. With thoughtfully curated offerings such as our Best of Asia and Chef-on-Call menus, coupled with exceptional in-flight experiences, Malaysia Airlines is setting a new standard for travel, truly embodying Malaysian Hospitality.”
The fully wrapped “Time For” tram, a standout feature of the Melbourne campaign, will be a fixture on city streets until February, capturing attention with its vibrant design and reinforcing the airline’s dedication to connecting Australians with the world.
To celebrate the launch, Malaysia Airlines has also unveiled an exclusive global sale, offering savings of up to 30% on fares to over 60 destinations. All-in return economy fares start from just AUD $649*, with the sale running until 22 January 2025. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the world with Malaysia Airlines and create timeless memories.
Make 2025 your year of discovery with Malaysia Airlines. For more information and to book, visit www.malaysiaairlines.com or access their mobile app for the latest deals and updates anytime, anywhere.
M&M’s Australia has unveiled its retail activation at the Australian Open (AO), celebrating the brand’s new multi-year partnership as the official confectionery partner of the AO, with creative agency Clemenger BBDO.
M&M’s launched Australia’s first-ever pop-up M&M’s store at Melbourne Park’s precinct – making it the unofficial eighth store in the brand’s global portfolio.
The brand teamed up with Clemenger BBDO to create a colourful, immersive experience that draws design and creative inspiration from the iconic M&M’s flagship stores in New York, London, and Shanghai.
The activation invites fans into a world of colour and fun, featuring interactive installations, limited-edition merchandise, and exclusive M&M’s customisation experiences. Fans can create a digital ‘Ace Shot’ photo, plus create their personalised mix-and-match M&M’s tube of chocolates.
“The Australian Open is the perfect stage for M&M’S to create moments of joy and connection, and we’ve been thrilled to help bring this partnership to life in a uniquely fun M&M’S way,” said Taryn Watson, managing partner, Clemenger BBDO. “In close collaboration with M&M’S, we wanted to reimagine what a pop-up experience could look like – blending retail, entertainment, and storytelling to give tennis fans something they’ll remember long after match point.”
Anthony Jones, group creative director at Clemenger BBDO, added: “This activation highlights the power of creativity and collaboration. M&M’s is an iconic brand with a rich history of bringing fun and connection to people worldwide. To translate that vision into something truly immersive at the Australian Open has been a fun journey, and we’re proud to see it come to life in such a bold way.”
Mars Wrigley’s portfolio director Michelle Gazzola said: “Partnering with the Australian Open has given us the opportunity to share M&M’s iconic personality with tennis fans and chocolate lovers alike. The space is a celebration of fun, inclusivity, and the universal love of our brand, and Clemenger BBDO’s creative vision has been instrumental in realising this landmark moment for us.”
Fans are encouraged to visit the M&M’S retail space at the Australian Open precinct, open until January 26.
CREDITS
Client – M&M’S
Ben Hill – Marketing Director
Michelle Gazzola – Portfolio Director
Deborah Tran – Senior Brand Manager
Anna Coldwell – Senior Activity Manager
Creative Agency – Clemenger BBDO
Chief Creative Officer – Adrián Flores
Creative Director – Anthony Jones
Managing Partner – Taryn Watson
Senior Producer – Katie Hood
Senior Account Director – James Hartnett
Head of Design – Sam McLennan
Senior Finished Artist – Chad Lippert
The Independent Media Agencies of Australia (IMAA) is gearing up for another prodigious year ahead amid record member numbers and a raft of events, initiatives and professional development opportunities.
The organisation today unveiled its 2025 program, with a stellar line-up of events and projects designed to empower the indie sector, strengthen its commitment to education to enhance the skills and knowledge of its member agencies and reinforce its Reconciliation Action Plan initiatives.
Key events and initiatives in 2025 include:
• Indie-Pendence conference: this year’s annual conference, dubbed Indie-Pendence Day, will include a panel of top marketing executives, along with keynote speakers. It will be one of the first events of 2025.
• The Byte Series: building on the success of the inaugural Digi-Byte series, the IMAA will collaborate with the CRA, OMA, ThinkTV and our media partners to deliver Audio Bytes, Out-of-Home Bytes and TV Bytes in 2025.
• The return of Pitch-Chella: the pitch competition, designed to provide emerging talent with opportunities to learn from seasoned industry professionals, successfully launched last year. It will return in 2025, with kick-off events in Melbourne and Sydney.
• Female Leaders of Tomorrow Programme: the popular mentoring programme is now available in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth will run throughout 2025, with plans to launch the 2026 intake later in the year.
• First National Leadership Delegation to Alice Springs: a delegate of senior media executives will visit Alice Springs in 2025, as part of the IMAA’s commitment to reconciliation.
The IMAA also has a number of networking and charitable events slated for the next 12 months, including mixers in several states. The organisation’s annual Indie Census, Pulse Surveys, IMAA Awards, and In-Front Series will also return in 2025.
“2025 is set to be another monumental year for the IMAA,” Sam Buchanan, IMAA CEO, said. “We have achieved more than we could have ever imagined over the past five years; our focus now is on doubling down on our efforts and ensuring we’re continuing to offer a first-rate event line-up, with a solid mix of professional development, networking and training opportunities, along with our commitment to education, group deals and levelling the playing field for indie agencies.
“This year’s calendar is already jam-packed, with many of our hallmark initiatives returning and the launch of new events, including our Indie-Pendence Day conference which will be an important kick off to the year. This year’s program has been developed to ensure we’re continuing to enhance our offerings and focus on providing opportunities for our members to learn, collaborate and grow, in-line with our mission of celebrating and futureproofing the national indie landscape.
“As we move into the year ahead, I want to extend my thanks to our members and media partners for their unwavering support of the independent media agency sector. The IMAA’s work is fuelled by our partnership with our many independent agency members who drive excellence across our sector, and our media partners who see the benefit of having a united and thriving indie sector. We’re looking forward to continuing our collaboration in 2025 – together, we’re shaping a stronger, more dynamic future for the independent sector.”
–
Top image: Sam Buchanan, Melissa Roberts, Michael Petersen, Phil McDonald, Jacquie Alley and Steve Fagan
Magnite has been appointed as FIFA+’s global programmatic provider to power video and displays advertising on FIFA+ across North America, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC.
FIFA+ is the global digital platform offering free access to live matches, highlights, exclusive documentaries, and archived football content.
The collaboration marks FIFA+’s efforts to revolutionise the football streaming experience for fans worldwide, bringing previously non-televised games to audiences for free.
FIFA+ will leverage the independent sell-side advertising company’s product suite, including Magnite Streaming, SpringServe, and Magnite DV+, to monetise its content on a global scale and provide a superior viewing experience to fans.
Magnite technology will help deliver advertising programmatically to all devices where FIFA+ is available for download, including mobile, desktop and CTV.
“FIFA+ is enhancing how sports content reaches fans in Australia, bridging the gap between global football and local audiences,” said Yael Milbank, managing director of ANZ at Magnite.
“We’re thrilled to partner with them to unlock innovative advertising opportunities that speak directly to loyal football supporters across our market,” he added.
Last year, Nine adopted Magnite’s SpringServe solution to manage the delivery and mediation of programmatic demand on 9Now. The Magnite Streaming SSP will provide the tools to manage and optimise 9Now inventory across multiple demand sources.
Magnite said SpringServe will enhance the 9Now experience for viewers and advertisers by shifting the way programmatic demand sources across inventory.
Magnite was also selected by Tennis Australia’s Demand Manager as its Prebid header wrapper solution, using it to monetise its display and mobile inventory programmatically for the first time and ahead of the Australian Open.
Demand Manager will provide Tennis Australia with valuable insights, flexibility, and control over header bidding operations and help them to optimise Prebid according to their specific needs in order to improve monetisation.
–
Top image: Yael Milbank
T-Mobile has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire digital-out-of-home (DOOH) ad tech firm Vistar Media.
The $600 million deal is part of T-Mobile’s strategy to grow revenue beyond internet and phone plans by expanding its advertising business.
The acquisition, slated to close in Q1 2025 (pending regulatory approvals), will give T-Mobile access to Vistar’s critical DOOH capabilities. These include managing media campaigns across a global network of more than 1.1 million digital screens and serving over 3,000 brand partner advertisers.
“T-Mobile is always envisioning new ways to deliver for consumers, and we see a tremendous opportunity to provide more relevant and personalised advertising,” said JP Colaco, senior vice president and chief t-ads officer at T-Mobile.
“By combining T-Mobile’s customer-centric approach and expertise as one of the nation’s most scaled marketers with Vistar’s leading out-of-home technology, advertisers can easily place their ads where they know their audience will be. This partnership improves every step of the customer journey. Together with Vistar, T-Mobile will deliver advertising solutions built by marketers, for marketers.”
Michael Provenzano, CEO and co-founder of Vistar Media, also welcomed the deal, describing T-Mobile as a brand that “truly understands the power and potential of out-of-home advertising.”
“For 13 years, Vistar has pioneered the use of technology and data to transform OOH into a strategic and measurable channel,” Provenzano said.
“T-Mobile’s belief in the future of OOH—and their decision to acquire Vistar—underscores the strength of this channel. Together, we have the opportunity to enhance our offerings for customers and partners globally and inspire brands to think bigger, redefining how they engage with audiences in the real world.”
Independent creative consultancy Common Ventures has launched a limited-edition towel collection that discloses the more uncouth inner thoughts of beachgoers.
The ‘Salty Towels’ collection gives a voice to the unspoken truths of the shoreline. Whether you’re alerting personal space invaders they need to kindly ‘rack off’, letting others know about your shameless ocean pee or deterring people from taking your valuables – Salty Towels has you covered.
Common Ventures partnered with Jacky Winter and artist Georgia Perry to bring the typographic towels to life. The towels feature callouts such as ‘You’re too close, rack off’, ‘Please don’t steal my shit’ and ‘Currently peeing in the ocean.’
Jane Burhop, creative director at Common Ventures, said: “When it’s 1000 degrees, summer in Australia means you have to be submerged up to your neck in a body of water to enjoy yourself.
“To kick-start 2025, we wanted to create something that celebrates the quirks of your typical day by the water, while airing out people’s questionable beach antics or micro-aggressions.”
“Beach culture is ripe for a little tongue-in-cheek commentary, and ‘Salty Towels’ does just that, with a touch of sass and charm.”
The collection launches just in time for the scorching weather so we can keep trying to pretend the summer break isn’t over. Here’s to the sandy bums, burnt tums, and unfiltered fun this summer season.
‘Salty Towels’ have been created for Common Ventures’ client network, with a limited surplus set aside for those wishing to join in the summer sassy frivolity.
This launch comes after Common Ventures was appointed by the Australian Communications & Media Authority (ACMA) to manage the strategy and a launch campaign for new government service, BetStop, following a competitive pitch process last year.
Zitcha has appointed Debra Berman and Jonathan Waecker to senior advisor positions as the Australian retail media platform continues its global expansion.
Berman and Waecker bring their extensive international expertise across retail, media, consumer goods, marketing, and technology to support Zitcha’s rapid expansion into the US and other key markets, driving Zitcha’s mission to build a world-class adaptive retail media platform that works for the total retail business, from marketers to merchants.
Berman was the former chief marketing officer for Yahoo and JCPenney, where, under her leadership, the retailer’s customer base and brand health were restored. She also led account planning for Kraft Foods, focusing on brand planning across the global portfolio. She has held roles in advertising, brand strategy, and management consulting.
A former board director for the Association of National Advertisers, Berman’s career started in media planning, and she has toggled between retail, tech and CPG, enabling a perspective for value creation across the many stakeholders of a successful retail media network and enabling Zitcha’s differentiation.
Waecker has nearly two decades of global marketing and retail experience, holding senior marketing and global executive roles at Yahoo, The Walt Disney Company, Zynga and most recently at The Warehouse Group, New Zealand’s largest retail group, where he was chief customer and sales officer and successfully launched the group’s retail media network, Market Media.
Recognised for his leadership across the marketing, retail, eCommerce, and digital sectors, Waecker’s experience with retail ecosystems, data, and in-store operations will be instrumental as Zitcha continues to expand its footprint and amplify its presence across the US.
Troy Townsend, Zitcha CEO, said: “We are delighted to welcome Debra and Jonathan as senior advisors at this pivotal moment for Zitcha. Their combined expertise across global retail, media, and technology will be invaluable as we continue to address the evolving needs of retailers, including joint business planning and team integration, to rapidly scale our presence in the US and beyond.
“Debra’s strategic insights and transformational leadership in retail marketing, along with Jonathan’s proven ability to build successful retail media networks, will provide critical guidance as we continue to evolve our platform. Their experience will help ensure that Zitcha, which is built for retailers first, delivers exceptional value and enables them to connect their trade and marketing efforts to drive real results.”
Berman, said: “Joining the Zitcha team in an senior advisory capacity comes as retail media networks in the US, which have traditionally been focused on eCommerce, want to broaden their omnichannel offering.
“I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to have a unified platform that bridges marketing and retail operations and Zitcha’s vision to create a solution aligns with the future direction of retail media. I look forward to working alongside Troy and the growing US team to leverage my experience and help guide the business through this competitive landscape.”
Waecker added: “Having worked alongside Zitcha for the launch of the Market Media retail media network, I’ve seen firsthand the outstanding results the Zitcha platform delivers for retailers across all categories.
“I couldn’t be more excited to bring my global passion and expertise across retail, marketing, and retail media together to support Troy and the entire Zitcha team as they push into their next phase of growth.”
Zitcha, which was developed as a retailer-first tech platform, recently announced A$15 million (US$10 million) in Series A funding, led by US investment firm VMG Partners, to accelerate growth in the booming North American retail media market.
Picture: (L to R) Debra Berman; Jack Byrne, co-founder and chief operating officer, Zitcha; Troy Townsend, co-founder and CEO, Zitcha; and Jonathan Waecker
One suggestion, explored by Cam Wilson in today’s Crikey, is the use of age inference – a system that estimates a user’s age by analysing digital clues and patterns in their online activity.
The tool isn’t new and is already being used by a popular chat platform.
Beijing is keen for TikTok to remain under ByteDance ownership and is appealing the ban to the US Supreme Court. However, justices hinted on January 10 they might uphold the law, reports Bloomberg News.
Amid mounting pressure, senior Chinese officials are exploring contingency options, including Musk’s involvement, as part of broader talks on navigating tensions with the US government.
“After almost 14 years, the Mike E & Emma journey has come to an end,” Chow wrote.
The pair last hit the airwaves in December, hosting their national weekend breakfast show. Rumours suggest one of the hosts could be stepping into a coveted weekday breakfast slot.
Better Man managed just $1.8m in its US opening weekend, not including its hefty global marketing bill.
Even on home turf, the $179m biopic struggled, earning a lukewarm $3.1m in the UK. To date, the CGI-chimp-fronted flick has scraped together a mere $7.7m worldwide.
These prestigious awards, presented by the Australian Writers’ Guild, celebrate AWG members based solely on their scripts.
This year’s nominees include Fake, The Artful Dodger, Territory, Total Control, Space Nova, Beep & Mort, The Last Year of Television, Windcatcher, and more.
Winners will be revealed on Thursday, 13 February, at NIDA’s Parade Theatre in Kensington, with Alex Lee and Suren Jayemanne hosting the event.
A New York Magazine cover story on Monday outlined fresh claims from eight women, four of whom had previously come forward. The allegations follow last year’s Master podcast by Tortoise Media, which first reported the accusations.
Gaiman’s representatives have denied the claims, stating that his encounters with the women were consensual.