Google, Yahoo, Microsoft, AOL, Hulu and Digitas are partnering on “Digital Content NewFronts“. During a two-week period from April 19th to May 2nd, each partner will host an independent event in NYC to connect brands with content. The events are invitation-only.
“We’re really looking forward to meeting with our clients in May, to talk about brand building opportunities across Google and YouTube,” said Lucas Watson, VP of global video sales for YouTube. “We think this series of events will be a great forum for important industry discussions and we look forward to advancing the conversation.”
“We are excited to see the major players across the competitive landscape make native digital content a priority,” said AOL SVP, Sales Strategy, Marketing & Partnerships, Janet Balis. “Given AOL’s deep commitment to original, high impact digital experiences, we feel this is an incredibly valuable opportunity to showcase the creativity of our ideas and solutions.”
“There is an urgency to invest in quality content at scale,” said Colin Kinsella, CEO, Digitas North America. “The DCNF is established as a direct result of the growing impact of digital content on consumers, and therefore brands, their investments and agencies. We are thrilled to participate in this collaboration-first that will chart new territory in digital content and media.”
According to data from eMarketer, online ad spend is expected to grow 23% in 2012 to $39.5 billion in the U.S. Online video ad spending grew by 52.1% in 2011 in the U.S., and by 2015, it’s expected to reach $7.1 billion (up from $2.16 billion in 2011).
Hulu’s event will be on April 19th. Microsoft and AOl will both hold their events on April 24th. On the 25th, Yahoo will hold its, followed by Digitas’ on April 26th, and Google’s on May 2nd.
Additional events will be announced in the coming weeks.