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June 25, 2010

Cannes Is Synonymous With Change

It is an understatement to say that the advertising and communications industry has experienced a great deal of change in the last five years. Economic conditions, consumer engagement, social media, digital technologies, tangible metrics and much more, are changing how we do business. Clearly the industry needs to be fluid and adaptive while leaders within the industry need to be bold, take a stand, and lead the change. The Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival has not been immune to these forces and is doing its best to be increasing relevant within these new dynamics.

This year entries are up 7% and attendance has risen 35% which is comparable to pre-recession levels. This indicates a general restoration in faith in the economy but more importantly it signals a need to invest in the future and celebrate the strategic and creative accomplishments of the industry. Since arriving in Cannes, I have noted a refreshing seriousness amongst those in attendance. People are here to learn and to challenge themselves. I have never seen such active note-taking at the sessions and more earnest, intense discussions at the breaks.

If you check out the homepage of the Festival, you will see a section, “Creative Advertising = Business Success.” This section features a report that purports to prove that creative advertising equates to business success. This is incredibly relevant to clients who, by the way, are back in force this year representing approximately ten percent of attendees. This is a good thing. Client participation can only result in more relevant and rewarding work from their agencies.

Another growing segment of attendees are what can be called "tech companies." Over the last few years, Microsoft, Google and Yahoo have become a staple and a force (this year Yahoo scored a minor coup by sponsoring the infamous Gutter Bar). Now these companies are joined by Adobe, Nokia, and HP. Global consulting firms are relatively new entrants with ones such as PwC joining session discussions on the changed marketing landscape. Hollywood too is increasing its presence supporting the theory that communications and entertainment are a natural combination.

The Festival will always be a great time, a great place to network, and a time to celebrate great work. Increasingly, it needs to be synonymous with effectiveness and results. By what I have observed, this transformation is underway.