What a week! New York City was buzzing, and the Kite Hill team was right in the thick of it, soaking up every ounce of inspiration and innovation from Advertising Week 2025 and the incredible adjacent events happening across the city. From insightful panels to vibrant networking, our team had its finger firmly on the pulse of the industry’s biggest trends.
Here’s a snapshot of what stood out to us:
Human Storytelling Still Wins in an AI-Driven World
Across multiple sessions, a resounding theme emerged: the undeniable power of human-first storytelling. While AI dominated conversations (and rightly so!), the consensus was clear – AI is a tool, a guide, a developer, but the genesis of a truly impactful story must remain human.
At The Future of AI in Advertising panel, leaders from Google and The Trade Desk explored how AI can enhance creative decision-making—but agreed that empathy remains the ultimate differentiator. This sentiment echoed throughout the week. At Blackweek, speakers discussed that the goal is “globally consistent while being locally relevant,” and that authentic connection comes from human insight. Data, of course, plays a crucial role in validating these narratives, but it’s the human element that truly resonates and can’t be argued with.
Industry Bright Spots: CTV, Retail Media, and Creators Reign Supreme
The undeniable “bright spots” shaping the future of our industry were a hot topic. Connected TV (CTV), retail media networks, and creators are not just trends; they are the very engines driving innovation and engagement. This shift underscores the importance of integrated strategies that meet consumers where they are, with authentic and compelling content.
A Resurgence of Creativity and a More Inclusive Landscape
One of the most invigorating takeaways was the renewed focus on creativity. Conversations felt almost reminiscent of those we’d hear at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. This emphasis on humans being at the center of the equation, with technology serving as an enabler rather than a replacement, is a breath of fresh air. It’s about leveraging tools to elevate human ingenuity.
Beyond creativity, the demographic shift within the industry was palpable and inspiring. Kite Hill CEO, Tiffany, has been attending Advertising Week since 2007, saw “more female leaders here, on panels and in meetings than I ever have before.” This is a testament to the hard work of organizations like Female Quotient, which brought together powerhouse panels and fostered crucial discussions around culture and leadership. Brianne Olson, CEO of PacSun, powerfully articulated, “Culture is an operating system,” reinforcing that inclusive and thriving cultures are fundamental to driving organizations forward.
A Week of Connection and Insight
This week may be a record for the number of advertising industry events held in one city. From Advertising Week itself drawing record attendance to the more intimate and equally insightful ADWEEK House and the consistently impactful events by She Runs It, the opportunities for learning and connection were endless. The discussions facilitated by She Runs It, like “Best of the Badass Bosses” and the “Media Insights Breakfast,” were thought-provoking, actionable, and honest, providing invaluable insights into navigating the modern leadership landscape.
The Kite Hill team is energized by the collective intelligence and forward-thinking discussions that defined Advertising Week 2025. We’re not just reporting on these trends; we’re actively integrating them into our strategies to provide our clients with truly impactful and future-proof solutions. From crafting human-centric narratives amplified by smart technology to navigating the evolving landscapes of CTV and retail media, we are committed to being your trusted partner in this dynamic industry. The world of advertising is moving fast, and we’re right there with it, ensuring our clients are always one step ahead.