MPartners Pte Ltd

Adalytics Claims PMAX Ran Brands' Ads on Porn and Piracy

Adalytics alleges that Google-mediated search ads ran on questionable sites via the Search Partner Network, including porn sites, piracy domains, and Iranian sites potentially subject to OFAC sanctions. The report claims hundreds of sites were monetized through Programmable Search Engine (ProSE) and Google’s Search Partner Network, with ads from major brands appearing in these contexts. VideoWeek independently verified instances including brands such as M&S, Currys, Pinterest, and Quorn appearing on a porn site, and Apple and Amazon on piracy sites. Google pushed back, saying revenue sharing with sanctioned entities was not identified and that the overall impact would be negligible; it notes transparency improvements and offers reports to advertisers who request them. Adalytics argues for greater transparency and control over placements, highlighting that Performance Max cannot opt out of Search Partner placements. Currys criticized the lack of complete brand safety coverage and called for proactive measures.

LHF Restrictions Spark Creativity in Media Planning

LHF restrictions ban advertising less healthy food and drink (LHF) products on pre-watershed TV and all paid online advertising, with enforcement moved to January 2026 but compliance required from October 2025. TV brand advertising remains exempt, meaning stalwarts like Iceland and M&S can appear on screen but under tighter rules (e.g., celebs and festive bakes restricted before 9pm; some brands may reformulate products to stay within scope). Agencies and media owners are urged to rethink media plans, as DOOH, audio, print, and organic digital remain open while paid digital, including influencer content, falls under the ban. The shift toward non-TV channels could boost DOOH and audio spend, with platforms like Spotify highlighted. Cross-channel planning, econometrics, and updated measurement are expected to play larger roles. Examples include Waitrose’s serialized Christmas approach and other brand-led strategies; industry voices from Ipsos and IAB UK anticipate a more diverse media mix post-October.

Diversity Debate Rewards Inaction, Says POCC's Nana Bempah

This interview profiles POCC, a London-based community for people of color in advertising and the creative industries. Co-founders Nana Bempah and Kevin Morosky describe growing POCC from a small WhatsApp group to a 400-member network spanning agencies, developers, designers, photographers, filmmakers, and more. Members discuss systemic racism, share support, and connect for opportunities. Nana criticizes how diversity is sometimes framed as a reward for minimal effort and cites examples like a controversial anti-knife campaign on chicken boxes as inauthentic. The piece notes the industry’s uneven progress, especially in senior leadership, and calls out performative diversity efforts. Looking ahead, POCC aims to replace WhatsApp with a dedicated platform, establish physical spaces across London and beyond, and create incubators to help young people enter creative roles, with a broader goal of improving conditions for black and brown professionals.