157. What Makes a Creativity Festival Thrive for 70 Years?

In this episode, Bessie is joined by Simon Cook, Global CEO of Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, to dive into the rich history, challenges, and future of one of the world’s most prestigious festivals. With 71 years of creative excellence, Cannes Lions has become a beacon for marketers, advertisers, and creatives globally. Simon shares insights on how the festival has evolved from its beginnings in Venice, the importance of maintaining a level playing field for all entrants, and how the event continues to innovate, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.

Bessie and Simon also discuss the festival’s relationship with the city of Cannes, the shift toward more inclusivity, and the growing role of creators and influencers. They explore how brands, especially from emerging markets like China, can leverage the festival for global exposure, and what lies ahead for Cannes Lions in an increasingly digital and fast-paced world.

Key Highlights:

·The Origins of Cannes Lions: Cannes Lions began in 1954 in Venice, Italy, with a single award for TV and cinema advertising. The festival later found its permanent home in Cannes, France.

·Cannes Lions’ Evolution:How Cannes Lions has expanded from being ad-focused to encompassing all aspects of creativity.

·Managing Growth and Scaling the Festival: Insights into the festival’s business model and revenue streams. The relationship between Cannes Lions and the city of Cannes.

·Engaging First-Time Participants: The festival offers a “First-Time Program” to guide new entrants, ensuring that smaller and independent agencies can participate and thrive.

·Rigorous Speaker Selection Process: Sponsorship doesn’t guarantee a spot on the stage. How Cannes Lions selects speakers and maintains a high standard of content quality.

·Rise of Creators and Influencers: With the launch of the Creator Pass, the festival now engages social media creators and influencers, recognizing the growing importance of the creator economy in global marketing.

·Opportunities for emerging markets: The discussion highlights how Chinese brands and innovators are increasingly looking to make their mark globally, and how Cannes Lions provides a platform for them to showcase their creativity.

【本节目由Withinlink碚曦投资协作体出品】

【嘉宾】

Simon Cook

Global CEO, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity

【主持】

李倩玲 Bessie Lee

广告营销行业资深从业者，商业观察者

【后期制作】

 小朱

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