Mediaocean have released the findings from its 2025 H1 Advertising Outlook Report, which reveals how marketers are navigating rapid technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors. The report highlights key findings, including the rise of generative AI as the top consumer trend, marketers’ increased investments in automation, and the continued prioritization of digital channels like social media, digital display/video, and Connected TV (CTV).
The 2025 Advertising Outlook Report was informed by a recent survey of nearly 700 marketing professionals. It includes a foreword by Brian Wieser, CEO and Principal of Madison and Wall, an advisory firm focused on the media and technology industries. The industry community has described Wieser as “Madison Avenue’s de facto Chief Economist.”
The report explores AI’s growing influence, the role of automation, and preparations for a multi-ID future, offering a comprehensive view of the advertising industry’s trajectory, with the key findings being:
- Ad Spending Prioritization: Social media, digital display/video, and Connected TV (CTV) are the fastest-growing channels, with 68%, 67%, and 55% of marketers planning to increase spending in these areas, respectively.
- AI as a Top Trend: Generative AI has emerged as the leading consumer trend, surpassing CTV. 63% of marketers identify it as critical. Key advancements in AI are reshaping workflows and enabling more sophisticated advertising strategies.
- Automation on the Rise: Automation has become the fastest-growing investment area, with a 17% increase in adoption since mid-2024, as marketers seek to improve their workflow across media formats.
- Multi-ID Measurement: Advertisers are adopting multiple approaches to identity resolution to improve campaign measurement and attribution. Almost half cite this as a top concern for 2025.
- Creative-Media Gap: Despite slight improvements, 86% of advertisers report a lack of synchronization between creative and media processes, highlighting significant opportunities for growth.
As we enter 2025, the advertising ecosystem continues to evolve rapidly. The interplay between technology, data, and creativity drives new opportunities for marketers to engage meaningfully with consumers. Mediaocean’s insights offer a clear roadmap for navigating these complexities.
– Brian Wieser, CEO and Principal, Madison and Wall
This year’s outlook report underscores the profound shifts already underway and intensifying across the advertising industry. From the rise of AI and automation to the need for more comprehensive measurement frameworks, the insights in this report provide actionable guidance for brands and agencies looking to thrive and compete in a dynamic marketplace.
– Aaron Goldman, CMO, Mediaocean
Generative AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a cornerstone of today’s advertising strategies,” commented. The moment we’re in reminds me of the electric vehicle transformation in the auto industry. To capitalize on the opportunity, nay – imperative, marketers had to reimagine their business strategies and marketing programs. The same goes for AI, and the brands that embrace it now will see outsized returns.
– Deborah Wahl, Forbes CMO Hall of Fame member and former global CMO of General Motors
The 2025 Advertising Outlook Report is the seventh in Mediaocean’s series of bi-annual market analyses. It synthesizes perspectives from brands, agencies, media companies, measurement firms, and tech platforms, offering a comprehensive view of the advertising industry’s current state and future trajectory.
For a deeper dive into the report, there will be a webinar on Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 12 to 1 p.m. ET – featuring Goldman, Wahl, and Wieser.