Vibenomics

The Sights and Sounds of Retail Media In-Store

Unlocking Retail Insights from Vibenomics’ Latest White Paper

Retail media is booming, transforming how brands engage with consumers at the point of purchase. With retail media ad spend skyrocketing from $1 billion in 2016 to an anticipated $59.98 billion in 2024 (Emarketer, 2023), it’s clear that in-store media continues to become a more critical component of modern marketing strategies. However, the true potential of in-store media remains untapped due to inconsistent measurement methods and fragmented data sources. 

Vibenomics’ latest white paper, “In-Store Impressions Unlocked: To the Roof, Under the Roof, In the Zone,” addresses these challenges head-on, offering a comprehensive guide for brands and retailers on how to navigate in-store audiences and gain accurate audience insights.

Overcoming Inconsistent Measurement Methods

One of the biggest hurdles in retail media is the need for standardized metrics for measuring in-store impressions. Current methods are inconsistent because they rely on disparate data sources and varied methodologies across retail networks. This inconsistency makes it difficult for retailers to quantify the value of their in-store media inventory and for advertisers to receive reliable and consistent audience insights. 

Vibenomics’ white paper presents an applicative solution by advocating for clear audibility and viewability metrics. These metrics provide a comprehensive understanding of audience sizing, providing retailers and advertisers with accurate, trusted, and reliable data. 

The Digital In-Store Retail Media Opportunity

Digital in-store retail media (digital displays, audio messaging, interactive kiosks, mobile integration, and experiential marketing), offers significant opportunities for retailers looking to connect with consumers. These channels engage shoppers, influence purchase decisions, and drive sales. 

The rapid expansion of retail media underscores its importance in the advertising landscape, with technological advancements enabling retailers to implement dynamic digital advertising solutions. However, to fully capitalize on this potential, retailers must overcome the evolving standards and precise methods for measuring in-store impressions. This white paper includes insights and strategies from industry leaders looking to navigate these challenges. 

Understanding the Digital In-Store Audience 

Retailers must clearly understand their digital in-store audience to monetize their Retail Media Networks (RMNs) effectively. However, the current approach to understanding in-store audiences must be more cohesive. The white paper highlights the importance of a comprehensive in-store audience measurement strategy, emphasizing the need for strategic partnerships, data-driven content strategies, omnichannel integration, and consumer benefits.

Identifying the Value of an In-Store Impression 

Accurate audience measurement is crucial for retailers looking to maximize the value of their RMNs and advertisers looking to optimize their in-store strategies. The white paper breaks down the components of in-store impressions, such as audience detection, ad exposure, and audibility/viewability. By understanding these components, retailers can create measurable units of ad exposure that aid in identifying the reach, frequency, and impact of in-store media campaigns. 

Creating the Impression Value of a Store 

The white paper emphasizes the importance of a standardized approach to accurate and comprehensive audience measurement. It details the collaborative efforts of Vibenomics, Placer.ai, and Quividi to develop next-generation in-store impression calculations. By integrating diverse data inputs, these companies create a more precise and comprehensive baseline for in-store media performance.  

Delivering Accurate In-Store Impressions 

Vibenomics’ white paper aligns with the Interactive Advertising Bureau’s (IAB) efforts to create a unified approach to in-store impression measurement. By leveraging location analytics and in-store sensor data, retailers can gain accurate impression counts and deduplicate audience reach. This standardized framework drives greater confidence and investment in in-store retail media. 

The Future of In-Store Media

As the in-store retail media industry evolves, leveraging advanced technologies and reliable data will be crucial. The white paper underscores the importance of accurate audience measurement and targeted ad placement, leading to higher ROI and improved attribution. By capitalizing on and testing frequently, retailers and advertisers can refine their in-store media strategies, optimize content, and efficiently allocate resources. 

Vibenomics‘ white paper, “In-Store Impressions Unlocked: To the Roof, Under the Roof, In the Zone,” is an essential resource for brands and retailers looking to navigate the complexities of in-store audiences. This white paper paves the way for a more standardized, transparent, and practical approach to in-store media by addressing inconsistent measurement methods and providing actionable insights. Download your copy of the white paper today!

Getting Started with Vibenomics

Vibenomics, a Mood Media Company, is the leading in-store digital provider with an in-store network that reaches over 170 million monthly unique shoppers and 1 billion monthly shopping visits in the United States. Our platform provides a single, all-in-one retail media network, empowering advertisers to deliver an on-premise experience and connect with consumers via display, audio, and experiential channels.

Ready to elevate your retail media strategy with in-store audio? Click here to engage with Vibenomics today.

PART TWO: Key Takeaways from IAB’s DOOH & In-Store Retail Media Playbook

In the rapidly evolving world of retail media, understanding how to measure and optimize in-store advertising is crucial. Chapters 3 and 4 of the IAB’s Digital Out of Home (DOOH) & In-Store Retail Media Playbook offer deep insights into defining in-store retail media metrics and comprehending the complexity of in-store impressions. This blog provides essential guidance for brands and retailers aiming to enhance their in-store marketing strategies.

Measurement and Data Utilization

Holistic and Focused Measurement

“When considering the measurement of in-store activity, it needs to be considered as both a single-focus (measuring the impact of the tactic in consideration), as well as holistically—how the in-store activity performs in relation to the full omnichannel marketing activity. The in-store activity not only needs to be considered as part of the whole, but also how it impacts and is impacted by other out-of-store and online activity.”

Measuring in-store activity requires a dual approach:

  1. Single-Focus Measurement: Evaluating the impact of a specific tactic
  2. Holistic Measurement: Understanding how in-store activities interact with the broader omnichannel marketing ecosystem

Both approaches are essential for a comprehensive view of marketing effectiveness, ensuring in-store activities align with onsite and offsite efforts.

Measurement Methodologies

“As retail media evolves, measurement and optimization remain at the forefront, ensuring that strategies not only resonate with consumers but also drive measurable results.”

There are two primary methodologies for measuring audience exposure to in-store retail media advertisements:

  1. Top-Down Measurement:
  2. Bottom-Up Measurement:

Key Metrics

“The metrics we analyze and consider in evaluating performance have to be thought about from each of these points of view, as well as to the overall experience of the shopper with the tactic – which will impact everyone.”

Accurately measuring the effectiveness of in-store campaigns involves several metrics:

Understanding the Impression Multiplier

Definition and Application

The Impression Multiplier is a factor applied to ad play counts to estimate the number of shoppers exposed to an ad. It considers:

This multiplier provides a more accurate count of meaningful impressions, enhancing ROI analysis, strategic content placement, and customer engagement.

“Each Screen or Media Device should be assigned a unique Impression Multiplier based on a number of factors including Venue and Zone foot traffic, field of view, and exposure time, and may additionally vary based on the time of day.”

Calculation

The impression multiplier is found using the following:

“The actual impression count, in the context of in-store retail media, is the count of total shoppers exposed to digital creative and is calculated by Ad Plays multiplied by the media channel / devices’ Impression Multiplier. This can be either throughout the venue (for example with In Store Audio) or each time a shopper passes in front of or engages with a digital display.”

Measuring Effectiveness

By applying the impression multiplier, brands can:

“With the application of an Impression Multiplier, retailers and brands can achieve a more nuanced understanding of their in-store advertising performance.” 

In-Store Venues and Zones

Structure and Classification

Each retail venue is divided into zones to refine the physical location of media and differentiate contextual exposure to shoppers. Zones are classified to ensure consistent measurement and comparison across different retailers.

“Zones must be overlayed to allow for Exposure and Dwell Time to be applied through location-based foot traffic, screen specific sensors, or other verifiable positioning technology.”

Technology Overview

Various technological solutions are available (In-Store Communication, Digital Out of Home, Retail Media, and End-cap/Self Activation) for enhancing retail operations and advertising strategies. Below are key measurement considerations for those technologies: 

“The decision to implement any of these technologies rests solely with the retail owner. Each retailer may adopt these technologies based on their specific needs and strategic goals.”

Engagement and Interaction Metrics

Beyond simple impression counts, measuring engagement quality and interaction with in-store media offers valuable insights into consumer interest and campaign performance. Metrics such as dwell time, interaction rates with touchscreens, QR code scans, and responses to audio messages should be considered across all formats. These metrics help in understanding how many consumers are engaging with the content and how deeply they are engaging with it, providing a basis for optimization and creative refinement, but how deeply consumers are engaging with the content, providing a basis for optimization and creative refinement.

Final Thoughts

Understanding and accurately measuring in-store retail media is vital for optimizing marketing strategies. By leveraging the insights and methodologies outlined in Chapters 3 and 4 of the IAB’s DOOH & In-Store Retail Media Playbook, brands and retailers can enhance their in-store advertising efforts, driving better engagement and higher ROI.

Be sure to check out Vibenomics’ latest whitepaper, In-Store Impressions Unlocked, to discover how to overcome inconsistent measurement methods to navigate in-store audiences and gain accurate audience insights!

Getting Started with Vibenomics

Vibenomics, a Mood Media Company, is the leading in-store digital provider with an in-store network that reaches over 170 million monthly unique shoppers and 1 billion monthly shopping visits in the United States. Our platform provides a single, all-in-one retail media network, empowering advertisers to deliver an on-premise experience and connect with consumers via display, audio, and experiential channels.

Ready to elevate your retail media strategy with in-store audio? Click here to engage with Vibenomics today.

Top Takeaways from P2PI Live 2023

In the dynamic world of retail, where the intersection of physical and digital realms shape the landscape of consumer engagement, the P2PI Live 2023 event emerged as a beacon of insights and innovations. 

This year’s event delved into the pressing issues facing retailers and marketers, unveiling strategies to bridge the ever-widening gap between the physical and digital divide. Join us as we unravel the key highlights and takeaways from P2PI Live 2023, where industry leaders explored the evolving nature of consumer preferences and ushered in a new era with “Return on Relationship” (RoR) taking center stage as the new metric of success.

The Need to Bridge the Physical and Digital Divide

In the engaging session titled “Better Together: Innovating the Future of Omnichannel Retail Media,” a distinguished panel featuring Paul Brenner from Vibenomics, Nate Pinkston from Microsoft Advertising, and moderated by Andy Murray of bigQUEST explored the transformative partnership between Vibenomics and Microsoft Advertising. 

Nate emphasized Microsoft Advertising’s broad perspective on retail media and the crucial need to bridge the gap between the physical and digital realms. The discussion delved into the increasing interest in in-store media, catalyzed by industry recognition and resources like the IAB Retail Media Buyer’s Guide

A key takeaway was the collaborative study’s objective: integrating e-commerce and in-store programmatic for proof of performance. The panel highlighted the significance of measuring the effectiveness of joint exposure to in-store and onsite tactics, emphasizing the commitment and collaboration required for successful analytics.

Paul and Nate presented compelling case study results, revealing a substantial 40% rise in household spending and a 50% increase in category share when compared to the isolated implementation of either tactic. The conversation underscored the importance of commitment and collaboration, highlighting Microsoft’s dedicated involvement. The panel encouraged active engagement from brands in this evolving space, recognizing the sophistication and testing required for successful analytics. 

Looking to the future, the panel advocated for a “better together” approach, unveiling an aggressive go-to-market strategy. Paul and Nate offered a glimpse into the exciting trajectory of their partnership, hinting at continued innovation and collaboration in the dynamic realm of omnichannel retail media. The session illuminated the current retail landscape and showcased the potential for transformative partnerships to shape the future of retail advertising.

Retailers Need to Cater to Evolving Consumer Preferences

In the informative session titled “Turning Insights to Inspiration: A Journey into In-Store Consumer Motivation,” by Jaime Bettencourt of Mood Media and Cyndi Loza of P2PI, key takeaways emerge regarding the significance of the in-store experience. The audience profile in Mood Media and P2PI’s “Engaging Shoppers In-Store Report” reveals that 52% of individuals shop in physical grocery and supermarket locations.

Jaimie identified two pivotal areas of consumer engagement: shaping perceptions to attract shoppers and engaging experiences that drive passive to active engagement. The discussion emphasizes the role of sensory elements, such as scent,  with case studies highlighting the impact in establishments within Hospitality, Grocery, Retail Verticals, all utilizing technology to bring products to life. 

Notably, 37% of consumers enjoy discovering new products at retailers, presenting an opportunity for in-store marketers. Customer trends underscore the importance of creating moments for learning, providing hands-on experiences, and making interactions personal, relevant, and meaningful. A practical example is cited in a well known women’s clothing and beauty retailer, employing wireless tabletop displays to enhance flexibility with different merchandise displays. 

The key takeaways stress the need for retailers to strategically shape perceptions, employ engaging experiences, and leverage technology to cater to evolving consumer preferences. 

Return on Relationship Is The New ROAS

The illuminating session titled “Return on Relationship – The New ROAS” delved into the evolving dynamics of retail media from industry experts Kelly Kachnowski from The Mars Agency, Jeffrey Bustos from IAB, and Vin Lay from Albertsons Media Collective. 

The key takeaways from their insights emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to retail media success, stressing collaboration among partners and the implementation of comprehensive measurement strategies. The extensive measurement of media delivery and engagement encompasses metrics such as impressions, click-through rates (CTR), views, and completion percentages. Evaluating shopping actions involves assessing store foot traffic, coupon clicks, and samples delivered. Conversion is found through attributed sales, return on ad spend (ROAS), percentage of new buyers, and sales lift, with an added value measured by distribution and return on relationships (ROR).

A central theme emerged around aligning values and harmonizing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for mutual benefit, encouraging a culture of continuous education and innovation. The panel emphasized the necessity of collaboration among brands, agencies, and retailers for impactful results, stressing the importance of long-term, cross-functional goals and a commitment to continuous testing in the ever-evolving retail landscape. 

The session underscored the nuanced dynamics of retail media, advocating for a collaborative and strategic approach to seamlessly integrate physical and digital experiences in a truly omnichannel retail landscape.

Final Thoughts

The Path to Purchase Institute LIVE event was a beacon of enlightenment, unraveling the intricate threads of the ever-evolving retail media landscape. From transformative partnerships and in-store motivation to redefining Return on Relationship, each insight offered a glimpse into the future of retail. 

As industry leaders pave the way for a truly omnichannel retail experience, the future appears promising and filled with opportunities for those ready to embrace the dynamic changes in the retail world. Collaboration, innovation, and the seamless integration of physical and digital experiences are the cornerstones of success in this dynamic industry!

About Path to Purchase Institute 

Path to Purchase Institute (P2PI) is a global association that provides insights, knowledge, and networking opportunities to consumer goods professionals involved in the path to purchase. P2PI offers a variety of resources, including research reports, case studies, webinars, and events, to help its members stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. 

Getting Started with Vibenomics 

Vibenomics, a Mood Media Company, is the leading in-store digital advertising provider with 23,600+ shopping locations in the U.S. Our platform provides a single, all-in-one Retail Media network, empowering advertisers to deliver an on-premise experience and to connect with customers via display, audio and experiential channels. 

Ready to learn how Vibenomics can elevate your Retail Media strategy with in-store advertising? Click here to engage with Vibenomics today!

In-Store Audio: A Personalized Gateway for Advertisers

In today’s dynamic advertising landscape, capturing consumers’ attention and delivering personalized messaging is the holy grail for brands and advertisers. Enter in-store audio, a powerful and increasingly popular tool changing the game when it comes to reaching consumers in a personalized way. Here’s how in-store audio paves the path for brands and advertisers to connect with their target audience like never before.

1. Captivating the Senses

In-store audio has a unique advantage over other forms of advertising—it engages multiple senses simultaneously. When consumers walk into a store, they’re not just seeing products; they’re hearing messages, too. This sensory experience creates a more immersive and memorable shopping environment. By using carefully crafted audio ads, brands and advertisers can leverage this sensory immersion to capture consumers’ attention right at the point of purchase!

2. Tailored Messaging

One size does not fit all, especially in advertising. In-store audio enables brands and advertisers to tailor their messages to reach and influence a specific consumer. For example, a grocery store that draws many health-conscious shoppers on particular days of the week can utilize in-store audio to highlight health-conscious products when these shoppers are most likely to visit. This degree of customization guarantees that the appropriate message reaches its intended audience at the optimal moment.

3. Real-Time Targeting

In-store audio allows for real-time targeting, which means brands and advertisers can respond quickly to changing conditions and consumer behaviors. For example, during a heatwave, a beverage company can promote its cold drinks through in-store audio, capitalizing on the immediate demand for refreshing beverages. Real-time targeting ensures that advertising efforts are not only personalized but also highly relevant.

4. Building Brand Loyalty

Personalized messaging through in-store audio continues beyond product promotions. Brands can use this medium to engage with consumers more deeply, sharing their brand story, values, and mission. When consumers feel a personal connection with a brand, it fosters a sense of loyalty. This loyalty can lead to repeat purchases and long-term customer relationships. 

Conversely, in-store audio can encourage consumers to purchase a new brand or product. P2PI’s 2023 Engaging Shoppers Report found that 37% of consumers are motivated to discover new products while shopping in-store!

5. Enhancing the Shopping Experience

Consumers today appreciate an individualized and convenient shopping experience. In-store audio contributes to this by offering helpful information, product recommendations, and entertainment while shoppers navigate the aisles. P2PI’s 2023 Engaging Shoppers Report found that four out of five shoppers enjoy seeing or hearing about available products in-store! This enhanced shopping experience not only makes consumers feel valued but also encourages them to spend more time in-store.

Final Thoughts 

In-store audio is a dynamic and versatile medium that empowers brands and advertisers to connect with consumers on a deeply personal level. By engaging multiple senses, tailoring messages, and leveraging real-time targeting, brands can deliver personalized experiences that captivate and convert. Personalization not only increases sales but also fosters long-term brand loyalty, making in-store audio an invaluable asset in the modern advertising toolbox. 

As technology advances, the potential for even more personalized and impactful in-store audio experiences is boundless, offering exciting opportunities for brands and advertisers to leave a lasting impression on their audience.

Getting Started with Vibenomics 

Vibenomics, a Mood Media Company, is the leading in-store digital advertising provider with 23,600+ shopping locations in the U.S. Our platform provides a single, all-in-one Retail Media network, empowering advertisers to deliver an on-premise experience and to connect with customers via display, audio and experiential channels. 

Ready to learn how Vibenomics can elevate your Retail Media strategy with in-store audio? Click here to engage with Vibenomics today!

About Mood Media Company

Mood Media is the world’s leading experiential media company providing music, messaging, digital signage, AV systems and scent. Mood Media’s solutions make every shopping and guest experience more personal and more engaging. Their fully-integrated solutions leverage advanced digital technology, curated and original creative content, and design expertise to deliver meaningful customer experiences that drive sales. Explore Mood Media’s in-store solutions here!

Partnership FAQs

What is the benefit of this collaboration to advertisers?

The collaboration creates national reach, alleviates fragmentation and brings consistency to buying in-store. Our diverse retailer network brings ubiquity to advertisers..

How does this benefit an agency representing the brands?

Brands demand transparency of buying and insights of the results. This collaboration aligns with the rapidly growing Retail Media investments through our extensive shopping audience spanning 25,000+ locations and 800 million monthly shopping visits to answer both of those demands. Enabling campaign activation across retailers and verticals allows agencies to make a buy that creates impact and influence. 

What are the benefits of a joint approach to these networks?

By opening up all networks to both sales teams, we can drive demand for everyone. Alongside the retail media networks own in-store sales efforts, our teams will add national ad spending across the portfolio. This unified approach, including our top-tier turn-key production services and comprehensive reporting, ensures acceleration of how a retailer monetizes in-store audio and display.

As an advertiser, does this expand the reach I have in working with the companies?

While the entire network is ‘accessible’ today, our goal is for all networks to be on a single software platform by early-2024. Notable retail locations within this network include Kroger, Albertsons, CVS, Safeway, Southeastern Grocers, Hy-Vee, Rite Aid, Food Lion, Giant Martin and many more. This gives advertisers a broad reach across diverse retail segments, reaching over 800 million shopping visits monthly, in 25,000+ store locations and more than 10 exposures per month per shopper.

As an advertiser, does this change who I contact / work with?

Each of advertising clients will continue to work directly with a designated account representative and their Ad Ops Lead for customer success. Regardless of which network the brand is running ads on, your single point of contact will remain the same.

As a retailer, what kind of measurement and reported capabilities will I see?

Aside from measurement supported by third-party partners, our measurement options applied to this network include:

What are the capabilities of the software platform being use?

This collaboration offers a platform for brands to connect with their target audience on a large scale through audio in-store, targeting by:

IAB: Opening the doors for in-store digital advertising and display

The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) has included in-store digital advertising, along with onsite and offsite solutions in its 2023 Retail Media Buyer’s Guide. With U.S. retail media spend projected to increase from $31B in 2021 to $61B in 2024, accounting for over 17% of total U.S. digital ad spending, this growth highlights the vital role of in-store advertising in driving retail media and enhancing consumer engagement.

As in-store shopping continues to attract a larger audience compared to online platforms, the significance of digital retail media ad spending becomes even more apparent. Digital retail media ad spending is estimated to reach $40.81 billion in 2022 — more than triple its pre-pandemic levels — and expected to reach $61.15 billion in 2024. According to Forrester’s 2022 Retail Media Ad Sales Report, experts predict ad revenue growth across retail media networks in the U.S. market will double over the next four years.

By incorporating in-store offerings into their overall Retail Media strategy, retailers enhance the customer experience and enable effective mid-lower funnel advertising, empowering brands to target consumers at a critical point in the buying journey. This approach allows brands to deliver personalized messages that resonate with shoppers, increasing engagement and the likelihood of conversion.

Some effective mid-lower funnel strategies involve retargeting users who have previously interacted with a brand and utilizing dynamic product ads to showcase relevant products or services. These strategies aim to re-engage and remind users of their interest, increasing the chances of conversion and driving sales.

The In-Store digital advertising solutions, as described in the Buyer’s Guide, include multi-touch models and omnichannel strategies, enabling retailers to optimize and assess the effectiveness of in-store digital messaging. This definition reflects the evolving retail landscape in our dynamic “phygital” world, where physical shopping experiences meet innovative technologies to deliver an elevated and interactive consumer journey. 

Mood Media’s acquisition of Vibenomics creates a single point of integration for retail media platforms to access, deliver, measure and evaluate on-premise digital impressions via multi-touch models and omnichannel strategies such as the following:

Brands can tap into the value of retailers’ first-party data to utilize the digital technologies of retail media networks (RMNs) and leverage their in-depth understanding of customer preferences and behavior. The result leads to brands effectively targeting the right customers with their ads and campaigns, maximizing the impact and relevance of their marketing efforts. These innovative in-store strategies can help retailers create a dynamic, immersive environment, captivating shoppers, encouraging interaction and driving sales and customer loyalty.

As the IAB and its members have incorporated in-store digital advertising into the retail media buying landscape, there is a growing demand for modernization from brands seeking simplified and innovative approaches aligned with modern measurement standards.

Embracing the “phygital” shift in our changing ad landscape

The IAB has recognized the importance of in-store digital advertising for retailers and brands who want to engage consumers more effectively at the point of sale. Unlike the traditional, segmented approach, omnichannel strategies integrate onsite, offsite and in-store channels seamlessly, providing customers with a streamlined and cohesive shopping experience. 

This shift towards omnichannel strategies has benefitted retailers, with omnichannel consumers making purchases 70% more frequently. Phygital environments are an advanced iteration of omnichannel retail, combining in-store experiences and the technology of online environments. Brands and retailers must embrace digital solutions and personalized experiences to thrive in the evolving retail landscape. There are various options available for advertisers to capitalize on this trend. For instance, Kroger and Hy-vee have ventured into digital audio in-store to improve the customer experience and increase sales. 

Achieving retail objectives with a dedicated retail media team

Brick-and-mortar retailers should leverage retail media teams to carry out advertising strategies, monetize their physical spaces and enhance their revenue streams. Retail media teams can:

Vibenomics and Mood Media dominate retail media in-store advertising solutions

Vibenomics is a single integration point for retail media platforms to access, deliver and measure in-store digital impressions. With Mood Media’s advanced on-premise digital solutions, Vibenomics offers a turnkey solution – simplifying ad-buying and enhancing retailers’ owners’ management of customer experiences. This strategy equips brands and retailers to maximize and measure the impact of in-store digital messaging via multi-touch models and omnichannel approaches.

Over six years, Vibenomics has helped U.S. retailers increase purchase likelihood by up to 77% using audio in-store advertising. Understanding the needs of brands and retailers, Vibenomics has worked to create a simple solution for managing their owned and operated assets while integrating smoothly with other media in their stores.

Retailers can’t deny the importance of in-store digital advertising. Vibenomics, now within IAB’s 2023 Retail Media Buyer’s Guide, is undeniably positioned to provide retailers with in-store solutions that complement and strengthen the effectiveness of Onsite and Offsite strategies.

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About the Author

Paul Brenner

Vibenomics // Senior Vice President, Retail Media and Partnerships 

With more than 25 years of experience in media & entertainment and advertising technology leadership, Paul Brenner served in several c-suite roles including division President with Emmis Operating Company [NASDAQ:EMMS]. As President of NextRadio/TagStation his work focused on global innovation through FM Chip activations in all smartphones for audience measurement, improved in-car user experiences, and data attribution platforms for all broadcast radio. In 2019, Paul joined Vibenomics as Chief Strategy Officer to help develop the go-to-market strategy for the company’s first-to-market Audio In-Store advertising solution. Following a successful launch, Brenner was promoted to President of Audio OOH to oversee all efforts surrounding revenue-generating activity and related partnerships. After the company’s recent integration with Mood Media, Paul was promoted to SVP of Retail Media and Partnerships, where he works to evangelize and innovate the In-Store segment of Retail Media.

3 Key Insights from P2PI’s Retail Media Summit

Even amidst the haze of wildfire smoke, our time in Chicago at the Path to Purchase Institute’s (P2PI’s) Retail Media Summit was nothing short of extraordinary! P2PI’s Retail Media Summit is an annual event with the goal of breaking away from traditional patterns of thinking and encouraging attendees to tap into new strategies that fully leverage the power of Retail Media. By embracing innovative approaches and adopting effective Retail Media strategies, participants can enhance their omni-channel initiatives and drive better results for their brands.  

There was a wide array of industry topics covered at this year’s P2PI’s Retail Media Summit designed to help CPG brands and retailers navigate the complicated and rapidly shifting arena of Retail Media. 

A few agenda items to highlight from this year’s Retail Media Summit include:

  1. Keynote: Andrea Leigh (Allume Group) emphasized the importance of meeting the shopper where they’re at and explained how in-store has a higher US monthly audience reach than digital.
  2. Session: Cara Pratt (Kroger Precision Marketing) highlighted the transformative impact of Retail Media on the industry and stressed the significance of adopting a unified marketing approach. 
  3. Campfire: Brian Gildenberg (CPG Guys Podcast) and Andrew Lipsman (Insider Intelligence) stressed the significance of Retail Media in building up the product and ensuring it’s not interfered with.
  4. Panel: Arthur Sylvestre (Danone) and Sheri Pasuco (Newell Brands) shared insights on how to effectively organize, budget, and measure success during the next wave of Retail Media growth.

3 Key Insights 

If you missed out on this year’s Retail Media Summit or just need a refresher, fret not! Here are Vibenomics’ 3 key insights from the 2023 Retail Media Summit –

  1. Retail Media is Changing Advertising 
  2. Meet the Shopper Where They’re At
  3. ROAS Isn’t the Only Metric for Success

1. Retail Media is Changing Advertising 

Retail Media is changing advertising’s impact and effectiveness. Keynote speaker Andrea Leigh, founder of Allume Group, stated, “Advertising is the force that opens up people’s minds to new possibilities.” Leigh’s statement highlights the influential role that advertising plays in shaping consumer behavior and perceptions. In the context of Retail Media, which refers to advertising strategies and technologies employed by retailers to monetize their digital platforms and reach their customers, there’s been notable shifts in the impact and effectiveness of advertising strategies and solutions.  

One of the key advantages of Retail Media is its ability to reach and influence consumers at every stage along the shopping journey. Through targeted advertising on their digital platforms, retailers can engage with customers during the awareness stage, introducing them to new products and brands. By tailoring advertisements based on consumer preferences and browsing behavior, retailers can deliver meaningful messages that resonate with the audience, capturing their attention and encouraging them to explore new products.

Retail Media has revolutionized the way consumers interact with advertising. By leveraging their digital platforms and first-party loyalty data, retailers enable brands to deliver personalized and targeted omni-channel campaigns that open up new possibilities for consumers. This shift has not only made advertising more effective but has also allowed retailers to measure and optimize their campaigns more accurately. As a result, advertising has become a powerful force in influencing consumer perceptions and driving consumer behavior in the modern retail landscape.

2. Meet the Shopper Where They’re At 

Meeting shoppers in the physical store is a critical element of implementing a successful Retail Media strategy. Despite the growth of e-commerce and online shopping, 91% of sales happen in-store. In-store is also the closest proximity to the product. Therefore, it’s important for retailers to focus on enhancing the in-store experience and leverage Retail Media to engage and influence shoppers.

Brands increase their reach by 70% when they focus on in-store. Andrea Leigh (Alume Group) shared a bar chart that compared in-store US monthly audience reach to digital US monthly audience reach. The data showed an increased audience reach in-store compared to digital for well-known retailers like Lowes, Walgreens, Kroger, and Costco. This information underscores the importance of investing in strategies that optimize the in-store experience and effectively utilize Retail Media to engage and influence shoppers. 

There’s no denying that technology advancements are making it easier and more efficient to put the right content in front of the right customer when propensity to spend is highest. While sometimes digital displays can limit the impact of shopper behavior due to restricted exposure and engagement, in-store audio’s ubiquitous nature has the ability to influence shoppers at the point of purchase because:

Think of the shopping journey as a funnel. Brands want to increase awareness through audio in-store, drive intent by getting the shopper to the right aisle, and enable conversion by getting the shopper to care enough to make a purchase. 

3. ROAS Isn’t the Only Metric for Success

ROAS (Return on Ad Spend) is a crucial metric for measuring the effectiveness of advertising campaigns in terms of generating revenue. However, when it comes to Retail Media, there are additional metrics and considerations beyond ROAS that are important to understand and leverage in determining whether or not a campaign is deemed successful. One such aspect is the focus on consumer relationships. Advertisers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of their advertising efforts through the following metrics:

Consistent measurement remains a crucial aspect in assessing campaign success. Standardizing reporting and data transparency is a top priority, although it requires significant effort from both brands and retailers to establish this consistency and measure impact accurately.

While ROAS remains an essential metric for measuring the financial performance of your advertising efforts, it’s crucial to recognize the broader benefits of Retail Media beyond immediate sales lift. By focusing on consumer relationships, you can cultivate loyalty, advocacy, and long-term value, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of your business.

Wrap Up

P2PI’s Retail Media Summit proved to be a beneficial event, offering a deep understanding of the ever-changing landscape of Retail Media. The knowledge gained from this event will undoubtedly benefit CPGs, retailers, and solution providers in their pursuit of enhancing omni-channel initiatives and achieving superior outcomes for their brands and businesses.

By embracing the insights shared at the summit, organizations can navigate the evolving world of advertising, recognize the significance of engaging with shoppers in-store, and prioritize consumer relationships in their measurement strategies. Armed with this knowledge, they will be well-equipped to adapt to the dynamic nature of Retail Media, connect with their target audience effectively, and achieve sustainable growth in the competitive retail industry.

Onto the next one! Don’t miss out on P2PI LIVE 2023 in St. Louis this upcoming November. P2PI LIVE is a premier event that aims to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience for professionals in the commerce marketing industry. Join Vibenomics as we continue to revolutionize the next generation of Retail Media in-store!

About Path to Purchase Institute 

Path to Purchase Institute (P2PI) is a global association that provides insights, knowledge, and networking opportunities to consumer goods professionals involved in the path to purchase. They focus on helping businesses understand and optimize the consumer journey from the initial consideration of a product to the final purchase decision. 

P2PI offers a variety of resources, including research reports, case studies, webinars, and events, to help their members stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. They also provide a platform for networking and collaboration among professionals in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry.

Getting Started with Vibenomics

Vibenomics, a Mood Media Company, is the leading in-store digital advertising provider. Our platform provides a single, all-in-one Retail Media network, empowering retailers to digitize their on-premise experience and advertisers to connect with customers via display, audio and experiential channels. 

Through a first-of-its-kind turnkey solution, this model delivers the ubiquity and revenue-generating capabilities needed to drive the next iteration of Retail Media. Ready to learn how Vibenomics can elevate your Retail Media strategy? Click here to engage with Vibenomics today!

Vibenomics Promotes Paul Brenner to President and Chief Strategy Officer and Expands Audio Out-of-Home™ Advertising Team

Hires Seasoned Advertising Executives Josh Pyne and Brian Liebler

Vibenomics, provider of custom streaming radio stations for thousands of points of interest and the industry’s first audio out-of-home™ (OOH) programmatic advertising marketplace, has promoted Paul Brenner from Chief Strategy Officer to President and Chief Strategy Officer and expanded its sales team adding seasoned advertising industry veterans Josh Pyne and Brian Liebler. Mr. Brenner will own the overall vision and go-to-market strategy for Vibenomics’ audio out-of-home advertising.

“The market reception and growth trajectory of audio out-of-home advertising has been astounding, and there is no more capable leader than Paul Brenner to accelerate our momentum in this exciting space,” says Brent Oakley, CEO and Co-Founder of Vibenomics. “When Paul joined Vibenomics six months ago, it marked a clear turning point in our company’s evolution as a premiere destination for marketers who want to influence shoppers as they take those final footsteps on the path to purchase, and he has earned the full support of our entire team.”

To support the rapidly growing marketplace inventory and demand from national brands and agencies for Audio OOH™ advertising, the company has named Josh Pyne Vice President of Ad Sales, reporting to Mr. Brenner. Mr. Pyne assumes leadership of an existing team of category direct advertising account executives who work with Vibenomics Ad Market partner retailer category vendors. The company also hired New York-based Brian Liebler to be Director of National Ad Sales.

“Traditional audio, OOH, and retail media are in the midst of a digital renaissance along parallel paths that converge at Vibenomics, putting us in a unique position that resonates with a range of media buying disciplines tapping into a variety of budget sources,” says Mr. Brenner. “Josh Pyne has the right leadership experience scaling emerging media channels to seize upon this transformative opportunity. He is well on his way to building a world-class ad sales organization with the addition of respected industry veteran Brian Liebler who gives us a crucial local presence on the ground in New York.”

Before joining Vibenomics, Mr. Pyne oversaw global channel partnerships with data-driven marketing agencies and consultancies for 2 years as part of Equifax’s Enterprise Alliances organization.  Earlier in his 15-year career, Mr. Pyne gained both agency and publisher side experience defining go-to-market strategy and providing executive-level sales leadership throughout the emergence of digital, mobile, and programmatic advertising.  Roles included VP of Strategic Partnerships for ChaCha, VP of Account Strategy at LEAPamp, and VP, Engagement Strategy for Caperion. Mr. Pyne holds an MBA from the University of Indianapolis and a BS from Georgetown College where he played football. He is also currently a Partner at Bluegrass Snack Co, giving him unique insight on retail media from the perspective of a category vendor.

Previously, Mr. Liebler served as Vice President of Sales, US at Launchmetrics and before that, was Vice President of Advertising Sales at Whisper. He was also Vice President of Advertising Sales & Business Development at ooVoo, and over two decades, held positions of various seniority at ChaCha, Alloy Media + Marketing (now Defy Media), Y2M: Youth Media + Marketing (acquired by Viacom’s mtvU now Cheddar), XOS Digital, and CO-ED Magazine/COED Media Group (acquired by bluTonic). Mr. Liebler holds an M.B.A. in marketing from Seton Hall University.

Vibenomics, Inc. is a location-based Audio Out-of-Home™ advertising and experience company that powers custom radio stations for retailers, giving brands the ability to talk to shoppers directly at the point of sale.  With its powerful cloud-based technology, licensed background music library, data integration capabilities, full-service team of audio experience experts, and network of professional voice talent available on-demand, the company provides the right revenue-enhancing vibe for over 100 advertisers in more than 4000 locations across 48 states, reaching over 150 million people.

Delivered through flexible plug-and-play mobile tablet devices, Vibenomics dynamically broadcasts hyper-targeted, in-stream audio advertisements and curated playlists within any combination of locations across its swiftly growing national footprint, unlocking a powerful new shopper marketing channel for reaching consumers during the critical final footsteps along the path to purchase.  Through a first-of-its kind partner program, retailers can receive a portion of revenue for all advertisements sold by Vibenomics that play within their locations, giving them the ability to monetize their private airwaves and transform a legacy expense into a new profit center.

Founded in 2016 in Indianapolis as Fuzic, the company rebranded to Vibenomics in 2017 and is backed by $7.6 million in investments. Vibenomics was named a 2020 Best Place to Work by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce and is a finalist for “Scale-Up of the Year” in the 2020 TechPoint MIRA Awards, the biggest tech awards program in Indiana.

How Audio Can Impact Bottom Line

When it comes to music in your business, there is a lot to consider. All too often, business owners make the mistake of playing the music they enjoy versus the music that could actually provide a noticeable impact to bottom line. As seen in 2005 research completed by the American Psychological Association, music was the key sensory factor in making impulse buyers purchase more, and of those that made an unintentional purchase, it was noticed that these purchasers dropped nearly $30 more than planned when exposed to music in the store.

However, there is no “one-size-fits-all” method for determining what will work best for your space. Outlining business goals — selling more, retaining customers, providing an outstanding experience — can help develop a winning audio strategy. From improved mood, to altered perception of time, to the development of a desired emotion, the benefits of audio are clear. Three elements have research-backed effects on consumer behavior in-store, and should be considered when determining what playlist should come from the speakers in your space:

Tempo

Research has found that tempo is closely correlated to the actions that a consumer subconsciously takes. For business owners, this is incredibly powerful, as you have the ability to dictate exactly how you want customers to behave. It has been shown that slower music keeps people around longer, which typically results in visitors purchasing (up to 32%!) more as duration increases. For example, slow music played in restaurants caused customers to eat slower and spend a noticeably greater amount on alcohol — perfect for fine dining establishments, or the afternoon lull. However, if a fast-casual restaurant is experiencing a dinner rush and a shortage of tables, faster-paced music can make patrons believe they have occupied the space longer, thus turning tables faster as a result. The tempo of the background music in a space can not only provide a tangible change in the atmosphere of the business but can alter the mood of visitors in a positive manner when thoughtfully executed.

Volume

The volume of music also is important to consider when utilizing audio in your space. While most research agrees that the volume of music should match the energy of the patrons of your space, there are a few additional factors to consider. First, loud music has been correlated to less time spent shopping when compared to softer music played in stores. Additionally, young shoppers tend to respond better to music played in the foreground of a space, versus older shoppers who typically stay in a space longer when music is in the background. Determining specific business goals will help define exactly where your volume dial should sit. The Association for Consumer Research found that loud music will keep customers constantly flowing through a space, whereas quieter tunes will help customers stay and enjoy the ambiance a little longer.

Genre

The genre of music to play in a store is fairly dependent on the ideal customer for a business. Family-friendly establishments have seen better results when country music is played since 42% of Americans listen to and prefer that genre. However, high-end liquor stores have seen customers leaving with more expensive bottles of wine when classical music is guiding them through the space. Consumers have noted that classical music has made them feel more sophisticated, and therefore, they wanted their purchase to reflect that feeling. This is also apparent during the holiday season, as retailers have noticed higher purchase rates of festive goods when Christmas music is playing versus a non-seasonal playlist. Music has the ability to connect with a specific emotion, making customers feel something in regards to a product, rather than think about the purchase. Additionally, determining what genre most closely relates with your target market is important because you may want to avoid it, as research showed that consumers spent 8% less time shopping when they heard recognizable music versus unfamiliar tracks because they perceived time to pass more quickly.

The right music cannot only help customers stay longer in your space, but also can make them excited to come back. However, perfecting your playlist can take precious time and attention away from your business. Audio Experience Solution can make your job easier with a library of curated playlists, thoughtful scheduling capabilities, and access to professional voice talent to speak directly to your customers — saving business owners time and energy, while still allowing them to reap the benefits that come with tailoring the customer experience. The right music, at the right time, can influence customers to stay longer, spend more, or feel more positively about their experience. Music can reinforce a message and emphasize the influence of the entire, holistic shopping experience on customer behavior creating happier customers and a better bottom line.

Interested in learning more about using an Audio Experience Solution (AES) platform and how audio can revolutionize the customer experience in your space? Request a demo of Vibenomics today and learn how you can start creating on-brand music and messaging for your customers.