The advertising and marketing industry is evolving rapidly, driven by groundbreaking technological advancements that are revolutionizing the way brands interact with consumers. Recognizing this transformation, ad:tech New Delhi introduced the inaugural ad:techHonours, a prestigious awards initiative dedicated to celebrating pioneers and visionaries in marketing technology. This initiative aims to acknowledge and honor individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to shaping the future of marketing through technology and innovation.
Held on March 6 at Yashobhoomi, in collaboration with the International Advertising Association (IAA) India Chapter, this grand event brought together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to recognize and felicitate the innovators driving the evolution of tech-driven marketing. The event was marked by insightful discussions, thought-provoking panel sessions, and networking opportunities, making it a landmark gathering for professionals in the digital marketing ecosystem.
For over 14 years, ad:tech New Delhi has served as a premier platform for conversations on digital transformation in marketing, bringing together the best minds in the industry. With the introduction of ad:techHonours, it has taken a significant step forward by not only facilitating discussions but also recognizing and rewarding trailblazers who are redefining brand engagement, customer experience, and business growth through the use of advanced technology. The awards serve as a benchmark for excellence in digital marketing, inspiring industry professionals to push boundaries and embrace innovation on a larger scale.
The credibility and prestige of the ad:techHonours are further reinforced through its collaboration with the International Advertising Association (IAA) India Chapter, a globally renowned body championing the interests of the marketing and communications industry. The IAA’s involvement ensures that the awards are evaluated through a rigorous and transparent process, making them one of the most respected recognitions in the field of marketing technology.
As technology continues to reshape the marketing ecosystem, ad:techHonours acknowledges excellence in key areas such as:
- Marketing Automation/Marketing Cloud: Recognizing innovations in automated marketing solutions and cloud-based platforms that enhance customer engagement and business efficiency.
- Data, Analytics & Intelligence: Celebrating advancements in data-driven decision-making, artificial intelligence, and predictive analytics to optimize marketing strategies.
- Social Media: Honoring creative and impactful social media campaigns that leverage emerging trends and technologies to drive audience engagement.
- Conversational Marketing: Recognizing AI-powered chatbots, voice assistants, and interactive tools that revolutionize customer interactions.
- Retail Media/eCommerce: Celebrating breakthroughs in digital commerce strategies, omnichannel marketing, and data-driven retail innovations.
- Influencer Marketing: Acknowledging platforms and campaigns that successfully leverage influencers to enhance brand reach and credibility.
- AI Interventions in Marketing: Recognizing the integration of artificial intelligence in content personalization, automation, and performance optimization.
- Performance Marketing: Honoring data-driven performance marketing campaigns that maximize ROI through precise targeting and optimization.
- Innovation: Highlighting cutting-edge technological innovations that are transforming the marketing landscape.
- Scaled Innovation: Recognizing companies that have successfully implemented and scaled innovative solutions across industries.
From established industry leaders to emerging disruptors, the awards shine a spotlight on those harnessing technology to drive impactful marketing solutions. This year’s winners, selected from a competitive pool of nominees, represent a diverse range of expertise in marketing technology:
- Marketing Automation/Marketing Cloud: The Trade Desk
- Data, Analytics & Intelligence: Integral Ad Science, ARM Worldwide, Kantar
- Social Media: Publicis, Digitas
- Conversational Marketing: Gupshup
- Retail Media/eCommerce: Publicis, Criteo India
- Influencer Marketing: Social Beat - Samsonite
- AI Interventions in Marketing: Tyroo
- Performance Marketing: Publicis, The Trade Desk, ARM Worldwide, Trackier
- Innovation: MindLink, Virus+ve
- Scaled Innovation: Vition, Sinch
As marketing technology evolves at an unprecedented pace, the ad:techHonours will continue to serve as a beacon of innovation, excellence, and inspiration. The winners exemplify cutting-edge advancements, setting new industry standards for technology-driven marketing, and paving the way for future breakthroughs.
Jaswant Singh, Country Managing Director of ad:tech India, emphasized the growing role of technology in shaping the industry’s future: "Technology is no longer just a tool; it is the driving force behind modern marketing success. These awards celebrate the visionaries shaping this future by leveraging advanced technological solutions."
Neena Dasgupta, IAA Mancom Member and CEO & Founder of The Salt Inc. Consulting, highlighted the significance of recognizing platforms and technologies: "We always celebrate campaigns, creativity, and talent; now, we are pausing to honor the platforms and technologies that make it all possible! These innovations are the foundation of the next era of marketing."
Abhishek Karnani, President of the IAA India Chapter, reiterated the IAA’s commitment to advancing the industry through continuous learning and technological adoption: "The IAA is dedicated to fostering conversations, enhancing skills, and leveraging AI to empower the industry. We are proud to partner with ad: tech for these Honours, celebrating innovation in advertising and marketing and encouraging the next wave of industry pioneers."
ad:tech New Delhi is part of the Comexposium Group, a leading global event organizer hosting over 150 B2B and B2C events across industries such as IT, security, and digital marketing. With a presence in more than 23 global growth markets, Comexposium connects 3.5 million visitors and 48,000 exhibitors worldwide, facilitating collaboration and innovation across various sectors.
The International Advertising Association (IAA) India Chapter is a globally recognized body representing advertising agencies, media professionals, and marketing leaders. With over 80 years of legacy and 56 chapters spanning 76 countries, IAA remains at the forefront of industry conversations, training, and technological advancements. The organization is known for its marquee events, including the IAA Leadership Awards, Olive Crown Awards, IndIAA Awards, IAA TechPulse, and Young Turks Forum, among others.
As the industry continues to embrace marketing technology at an unprecedented scale, ad:techHonours is set to become a defining platform that recognizes, rewards, and inspires future innovations. By setting new benchmarks and celebrating excellence, these awards will play a pivotal role in shaping the next chapter of advertising and marketing in the digital age.