The Garage: Tools For Retail Media Innovation

In this episode of "Exploring CTV and Retail Media Networks," hosts Dan and Evan are joined by Kiki Allen, Retail Creative Lead at Meta, and Alicia LeBeouf, Head of Industry, Retail & Marketplaces at Meta. Join them as they explore the evolution of retail media in the grocery sector, discussing innovative strategies like digital circulars and bundle ads that enhance consumer engagement. Kiki and Alicia also talk about how the shift from clicks to seamless shopping experiences is transforming advertising, and highlight the importance of creativity, collaboration, and real-time data in driving business growth. Kiki Allen on LinkedIn Alicia LeBeouf on LinkedIn Meta website Episode Highlights:[15:20] Kiki discusses the evolution of retail media networks and the potential for innovative partnerships, particularly within the Meta ecosystem. She highlights the significant role of platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp in fostering consumer engagement and facilitating transactions. As brands increasingly seek to meet consumers where they are, Kiki emphasizes the importance of integrating AI technologies to enhance discovery and streamline the shopping experience. This focus on efficiency and creativity positions retail media networks as pivotal players in the future of commerce, encouraging brands to leverage these tools to drive meaningful interactions and conversions within the retail space.[35:18] Alicia discusses the journey of building a product ecosystem that caters to both large and small clients. The goal is to develop tools for everyone but adapt them to specific needs based on client size. Large companies have different requirements than smaller ones, so segmentation is necessary. The early phases focused on basic tools, like using an ads manager, but as clients became more sophisticated, it became clear they needed advanced features like self-service options, measurement tools, and performance reporting. Alicia highlights that while Meta’s current product suite isn't fully developed, it’s evolving. The company is aiming for a more "bundled go-to-market approach" that supports businesses of all sizes by addressing specific needs while integrating automation for smaller businesses.[40:36] Kiki emphasizes the importance of measurement in the evolving world of retail media networks, highlighting the need for simplicity and adaptability in partnerships. She notes that while partnerships with platforms like Meta are strong, there is room for improvement in making the process easier and more efficient. She advocates for a tri-party collaboration between retailers, consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies, and media partners to co-develop solutions that address shared goals. The iterative approach, including constant feedback and collaboration with engineers, helps ensure that products are relevant and can evolve based on partner needs.

In this special episode, Dan Massimino and Evan Hovorka turn introspective. They delve into their backgrounds, the origin of their podcast concept, and the vital relationships shaping retail media. Reflecting on notable guests like Casey Hamlyn, Sean Muller, Sherry Smith, and partners from Google and Criteo, they explore recurring themes of innovation, collaboration, trust, and the promise of AI in retail media. Dan Massimino LinkedInEvan Hovorka LinkedInEpisode Highlights: [07:56] Evan and Dan highlight the unique approach The Garage takes towards problem-solving and innovation. Unlike traditional meetings with pre-canned sales pitches, the podcast embraces a hands-on, whiteboard session format that encourages real-time problem-solving and creative thinking. This format aligns with Evan's belief in rolling up sleeves and co-designing solutions from scratch. This approach reflects the podcast's aim to tackle the complexities and unique challenges of retail media by engaging directly with partners to create bespoke solutions rather than relying on off-the-shelf software. This method encourages participants to think outside the box and collaboratively address challenges in a more dynamic and effective way.[19:31] Evan discusses Google’s evolving role in retail media, emphasizing a significant shift in their approach. Unlike their previous one-size-fits-all strategy, Google has embraced a more tailored approach to retail media. Recognizing the unique needs of different retailers, such as Walmart, Target, and Amazon, Google is now focusing on building custom partnerships and integrating their toolset to meet specific requirements. This shift represents a more collaborative and adaptive mindset, demonstrating Google’s commitment to addressing the diverse challenges within the retail media landscape and working closely with partners to deliver more effective solutions.[33:52] Evan and Dan discuss the future of AI in retail media, suggesting a pragmatic approach for the next few years. He outlines that AI needs to operate within established rules and constraints to ensure compliance with business practices and regulations. This controlled use of AI for specific tasks like budget optimization and creative testing will allow for safe and iterative development. As AI proves its effectiveness in these areas, it can then expand into more innovative and less constrained applications. This approach ensures that AI’s deployment is both practical and compliant with existing constraints, paving the way for more advanced uses in the future.[36:26] Evan highlights the potential for integrating in-store and digital experiences in retail media. He contrasts the current focus on digital advertising, which is easy to implement, with the vast untapped potential of in-store interactions. He believes that leveraging the physical store environment, where most customer interactions and sales occur, could greatly benefit both shoppers and brands. Evan envisions retail media evolving to become a seamless part of the customer shopping journey, blending online and offline experiences to inspire and engage shoppers more effectively. He emphasizes that the true value will be realized when digital and in-store elements work together, benefiting both customers and the brands investing in retail media.

In this episode of "Exploring CTV and Retail Media Networks," hosts Dan and Evan are joined by Casey Hamlyn, North America measurement lead at TikTok. Join them as they explore the world of retail media on TikTok, from the challenges of content creation and advertising to the importance of data hygiene and trust-building. Casey also discusses the future of the advertising landscape, and expands on how machine learning and AI are transforming TikTok ads. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.Casey Hamlyn LinkedInTikTok WebsiteEpisode Highlights:[15:17] Casey says that in data management, it's crucial to recognize that systems evolve over time, and new challenges continually emerge, especially with online transactions that weren't initially considered. He uses the example of Nielsen, who emphasize sophisticated data quality checks and sustainable processes. They utilize a system of flags and notifications (e.g., yellow, green, red) to indicate the severity of data issues. Casey offers a key lesson: data hygiene deteriorates over time, requiring ongoing adaptation of data processes and sets to maintain accuracy. Continuous evolution and vigilance are essential for effective data management.[19:00] TikTok balances content creation and advertising to ensure a seamless user experience by prioritizing high-quality creative content. The platform allows all types of content, whether paid or organic, to have visibility, which keeps users engaged. Senior-level decision-making oversees the equilibrium between paid ads and non-paid content, emphasizing long-term strategy and the importance of quality. Casey says that TikTok supports advertisers by providing extensive resources and training to help them create compelling and engaging ads. [26:57] Casey says that TikTok is still in the early stages of establishing itself as a credible and reliable partner in the retail media space. Success in retail media requires dependable operations, strong relationships, and effective campaign management, including accurate measurement and negotiation. TikTok's immediate goal is to prove its reliability and consistency in handling routine tasks before exploring advanced features and special projects. Casey outlines how the platform aims to meet various levels of retail media sophistication, adapting to different capabilities and needs, while gradually introducing more innovative solutions as trust and credibility are solidified.[32:16] Casey anticipates significant advancements in the advertising industry, driven by reduced supply bottlenecks and enhanced creativity and processes. TikTok is leading this shift with its rapidly growing search and shop functions and new machine learning tools that transform traditional ads into engaging TikTok-style content. These tools speed up the creative process, helping marketers quickly adapt and optimize their briefs. These advancements are revolutionizing how marketers produce and manage high-volume ad content, marking a departure from traditional methods and setting the stage for unprecedented growth in the industry.

In this episode of The Garage, hosts Dan Massimino and Evan Hovorka are joined by JSD, the Chief Commercial Officer at super{set}. Join them as they discuss the acceleration of retail media, the future of data integration, and the potential for AI to unlock value in the industry. They also explore strategies to enable the customer's media vision, brand vision, and sales vision in whatever capacity they choose to execute. JSD leads market strategy and development designed to accelerate super{set} companies’ growth in current, new, and expanding markets. He is also a member of the Mobile Marketing Association (MMA) North America Board of Directors and Executive Committee and serves on the steering committee of the Marketing Organizational Structure Think Tank (M.O.S.T.T.). Adweek named him to the “Adweek 50” in 2017, a list of media, marketing, and tech executives leading the charge toward transformation.Jon Suarez-Davis LinkedInsuper{set} WebsiteEpisode Highlights:[15:22] JSD explains the tipping point that led to the acceleration of retail media. He believes that the dominance of walled gardens, including the rise of Amazon, played a significant role in this development. Retailers, as the owners of valuable data (which is tied to loyalty and transaction information), realized the potential for additional revenue and margin expansion through media businesses. This realization, combined with the maturity of the ecosystem, led to the rapid growth of retail media.[24:23] When fostering an innovative culture within an organization, simplicity and alignment are vital. Despite being initially skeptical of this approach, JSD emphasizes the value of having a beginner's mind, approaching problems with openness and a willingness to learn. He also highlights the importance of aligning as a team to drive innovation, noting that “it's hard to stop a team when they have alignment”. JSD adds that actively listening is another key to innovation—there’s no point formulating a response to something someone hasn’t said yet![27:49] In terms of the future of data integration. JSD believes that the next major focus will be on obtaining high-fidelity permission for data usage beyond simple consent, such as targeted advertising, analytics, and measurement. Retailers will need to ensure that they are using data in the right place at the right time and flowing permissions throughout the entire ecosystem. What’s more, JSD suggests that this is a “battleground” that is imminent, rather than a future concern.[32:29] JSD, Evan, and Dan discuss the evolving relationship between brands, agencies, and retail media networks. They acknowledge that brands are now spending money with multiple retail media networks and some are bringing their advertising efforts in-house. The key focus is to enable the customer's media vision, brand vision, and sales vision in whatever capacity they choose to execute. This requires flexibility in providing managed services or allowing brands to manage their own campaigns. The goal is to fill in the gaps and provide the necessary tools and insights for successful marketing.You may notice some technical glitches with one of our wonderful co-hosting duo's video, but don't worry! You can still catch the full interview (with almost all of Evan's video!) right here.

In this episode of The Garage, hosts Dan Massimino and Evan Hovorka are joined by Sean Muller, the founder and CEO of iSpot. Join them as they discuss the rapid shift from linear TV to CTV and the rise of ad-supported models in CTV. They also explore the importance of standardization in the industry, integrating with partners, and all things AI. Sean has founded and served as a key executive in half a dozen ventures throughout his career, including Demand Media, MediaNet Digital, eNom and The Wedding Tracker, and brings a real wealth of experience to the show. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.Sean Muller LinkedIniSpot WebsiteEpisode Highlights:[16:54] Sean discusses the emerging trends in the video and streaming space, noting the rapid shift from linear TV to CTV and the rise of ad-supported models in CTV (as opposed to a subscription-based model). He also talks about the nontraditional TV networks in CTV, such as YouTube (50% of which is viewed on a TV screen) and Amazon (which has a TV network and owns Thursday Night Football)o. Sean then highlights the industry trend towards retail media networks. [23:29] Sean emphasizes the need for standardization in measuring video advertising across platforms, from “traditional linear TV”, to on-demand streaming services, to social media sites such as TikTok. He notes that historically TV ads were measured by overall viewership, rather than the actual reach (ie impressions). Sean’s company, iSpot, has focused on creating a standardized metric for video impressions, meaning that each ad, regardless of platform, is measured equally. While the industry is moving towards this approach, Sean suggests that not every publisher or advertiser has agreed on a standard.[32:35] Sean discusses how iSpot handles integrating data from "walled gardens" (platforms with restricted data access) by using a sophisticated approach based on household and individual identity mapping. He explains that Ispot integrates with partners by starting with their ID spine, mapping out households and individuals across the United States. This approach allows for seamless integration with partners and simplifies the process for advertisers and vendors; it also allows advertisers to understand how their ads perform across different platforms, ensuring accurate deduplication and comparison.[34:48] Sean distinguishes between traditional AI (advanced machine learning) and generative AI, which involves generating different versions of ads or ad components, saying that there is a significant amount of “machine-learning AI that could be done to optimize the media”. He also mentions their investment in AI infrastructure and how they use their rich history of TV ads to generate ideas and speed up the creative process by creating storyboards or scripts. Sean emphasizes that AI won’t necessarily be used to create an entire ad, but could speed up some of the more time-consuming or expensive aspects involved in their creation.

In our third special episode from POSSIBLE, our hosts, Dan and Evan, sit down with Xander Kotsatos. Xander is the Head of Beeswax Sales for the Americas at Freewheel, a global technology platform that helps to power the connected television ecosystem. During their conversation, the trio discuss the exciting intersection of connected TV and retail media networks, the potential for co-branding and merchant planning tools to enhance the consumer experience and offer more than just products at a discounted price, and they envision a future where CTV and retail media work seamlessly together, providing optimized advertising experiences and maximizing ROI for retailers. 00:00:01 - Introductions00:08:27 - Explains What Freewheel Brings to the Table00:11:42 - The Challenge of Measuring ROI for CTV00:28:50 - How to Simplify the CTV Supply ChainFollow Albertsons Media Collective on LinkedIn to stay in the loop: www.linkedin.com/company/albertsons-media-collective  The views, information and opinions expressed on The Garage podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Albertsons or its employees. The content of this podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute or contain any legal or financial advice, nor does it constitute information provided under any sort of fiduciary relationship. Albertsons is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of any of the information, statements or opinions provided during this podcast and it makes no guarantee regarding the outcomes or results you will achieve by using information you received by listening to the podcast. Any product or company names, brands, logos or other trademarks featured or referred to in the podcast are the property of their respective trademark holders. 

In our second special episode from POSSIBLE, our hosts sit down with Albertsons Media Collective VP Harvey Ma and Sherry Smith, Executive Managing Director for the Americas at Criteo where she leads the brand’s commercial and operations teams across enterprise and growth accounts in the region. During the conversation, they discussed how sponsored search and product ads fit into an omni-channel marketing approach, how the retail media boom has changed the sponsored landscape, and what are the next big needs that RMN’s can anticipate coming from brands and how can they support. 00:00:01 - Introductions00:06:24 - Sponsored Search and Product Ads in Omnichannel Marketing Approach00:11:43 - The Role of Sponsored Search in the Funnel00:30:43 - Supporting Brand Safety and Client NeedsFollow Albertsons Media Collective on LinkedIn to stay in the loop: www.linkedin.com/company/albertsons-media-collective  The views, information and opinions expressed on The Garage podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Albertsons or its employees. The content of this podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute or contain any legal or financial advice, nor does it constitute information provided under any sort of fiduciary relationship. Albertsons is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of any of the information, statements or opinions provided during this podcast and it makes no guarantee regarding the outcomes or results you will achieve by using information you received by listening to the podcast. Any product or company names, brands, logos or other trademarks featured or referred to in the podcast are the property of their respective trademark holders. 

On this week’s episode, our hosts take a trip down to Miami for POSSIBLE, a marketing event focused on the collision of people, culture, business & ideas. During the expo, they sat down with Oz Etzioni, CEO & Co-founder at Clinch and Michelle Weiskittel, head of media, creative and operations at Albertsons Media Collective to discuss adtech organizations are adapting to changing technologies and consumer needs.  They also discuss how advertisers and RMNs can create even more personalized ad experiences and how do we futureproof the industry ensuring longevity for RMNs and advertisers. Timestamps: 00:04:13 – Overview of Clinch 00:08:19 – The Role of AI in Retail Media 00:13:04 - Elevate Your Retail Media Strategy With AI 00:29:45 - Sustaining Retail Media Growth and Future-Proofing the Industry Learn how to elevate your retail media strategy with AI: https://www.adweek.com/partner-articles/elevate-your-retail-media-strategy-with-ai/ Follow Albertsons Media Collective on LinkedIn to stay in the loop: www.linkedin.com/company/albertsons-media-collective  The views, information and opinions expressed on The Garage podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Albertsons or its employees. The content of this podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute or contain any legal or financial advice, nor does it constitute information provided under any sort of fiduciary relationship. Albertsons is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of any of the information, statements or opinions provided during this podcast and it makes no guarantee regarding the outcomes or results you will achieve by using information you received by listening to the podcast. Any product or company names, brands, logos or other trademarks featured or referred to in the podcast are the property of their respective trademark holders.