One thing that will hold strong is how brands engage audiences, providing unique experiences to ignite positive sentiments. Brand activation faced setbacks in the pandemic, but quickly adapted with new strategies.
Many brands introduced mobile pop-ups and safe experiences in 2020 and 2021, integrating consumers into their brand journey. These experiences filled a void during the pandemic. As COVID cases decrease and the world reopens, brands must be innovative and step outside their comfort zones for impactful activations.
We asked internally and did some of our own research to give you insight on what will be the next big thing for brands in 2022.
AR and VR
This trend was already growing before the pandemic, and we expect brands to adopt it in 2022. Innovative technologies provide an immersive brand experience, offering control and an escape from reality for consumers.
Pop-Ups
Pop-ups have been a key marketing strategy for brands for years, and they’re here to stay. With the world opening up, vacant buildings provide excellent infrastructure for brand activations.
Sponsorships and Live Spectator Events
With live events returning, sponsorships in festivals and live sports will gain popularity once again. Abundant impressions and creative opportunities make it a win-win situation.
Influencer Marketing
As we adapted to digital during the pandemic, brands will continue with digital or hybrid marketing approaches. Influencers will play a prominent role in brand campaigns in 2022, be it fully digital or live experiences. This trend is here to stay.
Virtual Experiences
The pandemic took away live for everyone, but what it brought was a way for brands to continue marketing and providing consumers with a digital touch point to the brands. We envision many events adopting more of this hybrid approach when it comes to events. Whether it be a seminar or conference format, online contest, or a festival creating an online activation, digital is here to stay.
To check out more 2022 trends, visit FinancesOnline.
Contact us to build your next brand activation here.
