The countdown is on for Advertising Week New York 2024, a four-day event that kicks off on October 16 in Midtown Manhattan. Celebrating two decades of thought leadership, the event is expected to draw over 17,000 marketers, media professionals, and industry leaders from around the world. This year’s focus? The growing influence of commerce media, evolving AI strategies, and the intersection of sports and advertising.
Held in the expansive Penn District, a venue that saw long lines last year, Advertising Week organizers have made several key improvements to ensure a smoother experience. New zoning has been introduced to make it easier to navigate the many stages, lounges, and networking areas spread across multiple levels.
Navigating the Venue
Advertising Week’s 2024 venue, located at 100 West 33rd Street, has been divided into clearly defined zones to reflect the topics being discussed. On the top floor, attendees will find the Leadership Zone, home to the Great Minds Stage and the CMO Lounge, an exclusive space for senior-level marketers to connect.
“We wanted to make the venue more intuitive and easier for attendees to get around,” said Ruth Mortimer, global president of Advertising Week. “By creating zones and expanding certain spaces, we’re hoping to make this year’s event flow better for everyone.”
On the lower levels, the Trends Zone will spotlight innovation, featuring discussions on digital media, tech, and the future of marketing. Meanwhile, the Scale Up Lounge will provide resources for marketers looking to build their personal brands and businesses.
What’s Trending?
This year’s agenda is packed with panels on commerce media, the rising trend of brands monetizing their digital channels by offering ad space. From retailers to tech firms, commerce media is transforming how businesses leverage their high-traffic websites.
“The concept of retail media has grown so much, it’s now relevant for many sectors beyond retail. Companies across industries are seeing the value in turning their digital platforms into ad networks,” Mortimer explained.
AI, while still a significant topic, has become more integrated into everyday marketing practices. Several sessions will focus on AI’s impact, with brands like Hershey and Under Armour sharing how they’re using AI to personalize customer experiences.
Celebrity Speakers and Special Events
As always, Advertising Week will feature a star-studded lineup of speakers. Celebrities including Drew Barrymore, Lil Jon, and Michael Strahan will take the stage for insightful discussions that blend entertainment with marketing.
On the social front, attendees can look forward to the Future is Female Awards, recognizing the achievements of women in advertising, and the final wrap party at Terminal 5, featuring performances by Eladio Carrión and others.
Advertising Week: Two Decades of Innovation
Now in its 20th year, Advertising Week continues to evolve with the industry it represents. From the days of print and broadcast media to the present digital era, the event remains a cornerstone for marketers looking to stay ahead of the curve.
“Advertising Week has always been about predicting and embracing what’s next in the industry,” said Mortimer. “That focus has kept us relevant and ensures we’re always looking to the future.”
One notable recent development in the advertising space is the launch of Medialister, a platforms for editorial ads that streamlines the creation of paid content. As services like Medialister continue to push boundaries in editorial advertising, marketers will find new tools to elevate their campaigns.
With countless opportunities for learning, networking, and fun, Advertising Week New York 2024 promises to be another unforgettable event for industry professionals. Whether you’re attending to hear from top brands or to make new connections, this year’s conference has something for everyone.
