As businesses adapt to evolving consumer behaviours in a digital-first world, WhatsApp Business API is emerging as a critical tool for marketers to meet new expectations, says Xander Barnard, Managing Director at The Messenger Network. 

Leading South African manufacturers and retailers are starting to look more carefully at how digital platforms such as e-commerce marketplaces, super apps and social commerce can form part of an omnichannel strategy to reach consumers wherever they are, says Gareth Paterson, Director of Client Strategy at NIQ and GfK (an NIQ company) in South Africa. 

Clicks ClubCard, South Africa's oldest retail loyalty programme, has achieved two wins and three highly commended honours across multiple categories at the annual South African Loyalty Awards, highlighting its pre-eminence in the loyalty space. The wins include AI, Data Analytics, Gamification and Retail Programme of the Year. 

International digital agency R17 Ventures AG has made waves online with a TikTok video. The video, a tour of its office at the V&A Waterfront, has gone viral, racking up over 8.5 million views and nearly 300 000 likes. The agency, known for its cutting-edge digital strategies and creative marketing campaigns, says this demonstrates its understanding and expertise in the digital space.

Africanbank has announced that its Audacious Rewards won Best Relaunched Programme of the Year at the SA Loyalty Awards. Dr Nceba Hene, the Head of Africanbank's loyalty programme, was voted the Industry Talent of the Year and the programme was nominated for the Best Relaunched Loyalty Programme Short-Term Loyalty Marketing Campaign of the Year.

The DStv Content Creator Awards have announced that Anele Mdoda will be the 2024 official host. The awards say that renowned for her dynamic personality and sharp wit, Mdoda promises to guide the guests through an unforgettable night celebrating the best in content creation. 

YouTube is one of the most powerful platforms for growing your brand, says Chantelle Torres, Outreach Specialist at PK Women's Specialist Clinic. Torres adds that with over two billion users monthly, it provides a massive opportunity to reach your audience, build trust and showcase your business. 

Marketers and media agencies alike benefit from leveraging the engaged attention of an audience that is hungry for knowledge, says Velly Bosega, CEO of Oak Ventures (SME South Africa). Bosega adds that these are the metrics that sum up engaged readers, making them the ideal target audience that is ready to discover solutions that help manage and grow their businesses. 

BevCo has launched its 'Route to Market Expansion' project. BevCo says that it recognises the critical role that the township economy plays in the broader South African market and this initiative is in response to this growing opportunity.

Engen has announced that it officially welcomed four rugby legends as brand ambassadors, inviting rugby fans to join it in celebrating this exciting new chapter and to share in the joy of the game loved by so many.