Today's news: Brands rethink their holiday ad campaigns, Big Tech crushes earnings thanks to direct-response advertisers, and Gap's CMO talks about making the brand relevant in 2020.
Kohl's and Peloton are going for hope and community in their messaging while retailers like Banana Republic, Gap, and Macy's are doubling down on virtual events and e-commerce.
Some like Chipotle and Peloton are also personalizing their ads, since the pandemic's impact varies by area.
Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg said the ad rebound was driven by verticals including ecommerce, education, and other industries that "lend themselves to online."
Dave Fildes, head of investor relations, said Amazon's priorities for the advertising business include making its tools easier to use as well as building out OTT video opportunities.
Even before the pandemic, Gap was reporting slumping sales, and analysts were looking for more excitement to be infused into the brand. The clothing store's net sales dropped 28% in its most recent quarter, despite a 75% increase in e-commerce sales.
Alderate said recent ad campaigns promoting civic engagement, voting, and hopeful messages are one way Gap is connecting with shoppers during the pandemic. "We're leading with the platform of modern American optimism," she said. "That's our brand positioning, no matter what. Culturally relevant expressions of that optimism is what we will do every season."
