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Insight of the Day: Gen Z ‘the most receptive to ads at sporting events’

Findings:Gen Z consumers (18-24) are more likely to notice and respond to advertisements at sporting events compared to older generations. Almost half (49%) of this age group said ads during sporting events stand out to them, and 42% are likely to purchase after repeated exposure. Their perception of a brand often improves after seeing ads at sporting events, with a significant proportion of them being inspired to learn more about the advertised products.

Key Takeaway:Gen Z is highly responsive to event-based advertising, particularly in sports, with a notable increase in purchase intentions for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). The visibility of ads during major sporting events significantly impacts their brand perceptions and purchasing behavior.

Trend:The trend centers on Gen Z’s high receptiveness to event-based advertising, particularly during sports events. They are more influenced by repeat exposure and emotional connections tied to the event than older generations. FMCG products, especially in categories like alcohol, snacks, and soft drinks, are the top beneficiaries of this trend.

Consumer Motivation:The main motivations for Gen Z include:

  • Brand trust and recognition built through consistent exposure.

  • Positive associations with the events they enjoy.

  • A desire for products that align with their lifestyle, especially in social and entertainment settings.

Drivers of the Trend:

  • Emotional engagement with sporting events: Gen Z connects positive emotions from events to the brands advertised.

  • Increased social interaction during sporting events, leading to more opportunities for shared experiences with advertised products.

  • Repeat exposure to advertisements during an event creates familiarity and trust.

Target Audience Description:The article refers to Gen Z consumers (18-24 years old), who are more likely to notice and act on ads during major sporting events. They are tech-savvy, socially active, and responsive to advertising that connects to their lifestyle and interests, particularly in FMCG categories such as alcohol, snacks, and beverages.

Conclusions:The study highlights Gen Z as a critical audience for brands advertising at sporting events. Brands that align their messaging with sporting events and create emotional connections stand to gain significant traction with this demographic. Gen Z’s receptiveness to event advertising can provide brands with a strategic advantage, especially in competitive sectors like FMCG.

Implications for Brands:Brands should invest in event-based advertising during sports events to effectively target Gen Z. They should focus on creating positive emotional associations and repeat exposure. FMCG brands, in particular, have a significant opportunity to capture Gen Z’s attention by leveraging sports sponsorships and in-event advertising.

Implications for Society:This trend reflects the growing influence of live events and social experiences on consumer behavior. As Gen Z continues to value social gatherings and shared experiences, brands and marketers must align with these cultural touchpoints to remain relevant.

Big Trend Implied:The rise of experiential marketing during live events is a major trend, with sporting events offering a unique platform for brands to connect with younger, highly engaged audiences. FMCG brands are particularly well-positioned to benefit from this shift.

Implication for the Future:As Gen Z continues to dominate the consumer landscape, brands will increasingly rely on event-based advertising and social experiences to capture attention and drive sales. Advertisers will need to refine their strategies to meet Gen Z’s expectations for authentic, emotionally resonant content. Additionally, the continued growth of experiential marketing will push brands to innovate in how they engage with live event audiences.

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