ClickZ Water Sports Newsletter - 11.07.2024

PLUS: Zhik Expands Partnership with US SailGP Team for 2025 Season

Leading Voices 📣

YouTube surpasses forecasts in Alphabet's Q3 earnings call

Google parent Alphabet's Q3 earnings call revealed YouTube's impressive performance, bringing in nearly $9b in ad revenue—a 12.2% increase year-over-year. This substantial growth, typically undisclosed by Alphabet, signals the platform's rising dominance in digital advertising.

👉 Fospha highlighted this upward trend in their their latest report, identifying YouTube as the second-fastest-growing ad channel for eCom brands by ad spend.

While YouTube currently reports the highest CPA among Google channels as brands adapt and optimize their campaigns, its increasing popularity reflects a broader shift toward brand-building channels for long-term growth. The platform's potential for driving brand growth makes it one to watch in coming quarters.

🔗 Read about the earnings call here.

Specialty Bites: Ride the Waves 🌊

The Atlas 190 DLX Pro Sensor Life Jacket by Mustang Survival is named one of Time magazine's Best Inventions of 2024. Designed for comfort and safety, it features advanced airway protection and ergonomic design. Available in the UK, it will launch in North America in 2025.

Helly Hansen partners with the Germany SailGP Team for SailGP Season 5, providing high-performance gear for races in diverse conditions. The team, featuring top athletes and notable owners, will compete in high-speed F50 catamarans. The season begins in Dubai, November 2024, with a global race series.

Zhik continues as the official technical partner of the US SailGP team, enhancing performance with innovative gear. This collaboration, featuring the Zhik logo on the team's F50 catamaran, supports the team's 2025 season across 14 global events, including three in the US, fostering future sailing excellence.

Billabong's new Furnace Natural Upcycler wetsuit is a game-changer in sustainability and comfort.

  • Eco-Friendly Materials: Made from 85% natural rubber sourced from FSC-certified trees, it replaces traditional neoprene. The remaining 15% includes Bolder Black, a recycled stabilizer from post-consumer products.

  • Performance and Comfort: Offers excellent flexibility and easy entry/exit. It's more lightweight than competitors, with quick-drying materials and durable construction.

  • Cost-Effective: Priced at $380, it's more affordable than similar high-performance wetsuits.

Its innovative design ensures you enjoy the waves without compromising on performance or sustainability.

Editor’s Pick🎯

Jamie Bolton reveals how top eCommerce brands drive resilient growth:

🌐 Diversification is Key: A diverse channel mix acts as an “insurance policy” for brands amid rising CPAs and a challenging market.

🔄 Stay Agile: What worked last year may not work today. Top brands adjust their strategy over time, adapting to new growth levers as they mature.

📊 Measurement Matters: With channel diversity comes more complex measurement needs. Only with full-funnel attribution can brands assess their channel mix and remain agile.

For a full rundown, check out the full post!

Performance Pulse 📈

Front Row, an acceleration company, helps brands optimize e-commerce strategies on platforms like Amazon. By leveraging Deal Days, brands can boost sales and visibility. Success requires planning, unique offerings, and nurturing customer loyalty. Effective SEO and affiliate marketing are crucial for sustained growth and maximizing long-term benefits.

LinkedIn's new research highlights the effectiveness of connected TV (CTV) campaigns for reaching decision-makers. With LinkedIn's CTV ad options, you can extend your marketing to platforms like Paramount and Roku. This approach could enhance your campaign's reach, especially among influential LinkedIn users who regularly consume CTV content.

Brands are shifting focus this holiday season, emphasizing social media content like hauls and unboxing over traditional e-commerce. According to Digiday Research, companies are refining strategies, including gift guides and catalogs, while adjusting discounts and revenue expectations. Insights from industry professionals highlight evolving marketing tactics and competitive dynamics.

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