DStv’s failure to secure the rights to the Winter Olympics currently taking place in Italy, is viewed by industry analysts as part of a much bigger trend, while fans are up in arms.

As we look toward 2026, the Out-of-Home (OOH) industry continues to evolve at an incredible pace; powered by technology, data, and a renewed focus on creativity and impact. The lines between physical and digital media are blurring faster than ever, transforming OOH into one of the most dynamic and measurable channels in the media mix.

Campaigns are eligible if they flighted in South Africa between 1 February 2025 and 31 January 2026. For entries submitted in the Sustained Success category, campaigns must have flighted between 1 February 2023 and 31 January 2026. Key dates to diarise • How to write a winning Effie entry workshop (online): Thursday, 5 March 2026 • Early Bird entries: 1 April – 30 April 2026 • On-Time entries: 1 May – 14 May 2026 • Last Minute entries: 15 May – 29 May 2026

Caxton Media’s engagement company, FoneWorx, is a South African leader in incentive management, loyalty programmes and prize fulfilment. Recognising the growing need for a more secure alternative, FoneWorx developed a robust incentive management system that is transforming how brands manage rewards and payouts.

This review is largely aimed at closing loopholes that are being exploited by bad actors, with BEE increasingly becoming associated with cronyism and corruption. The department also aims to determine whether existing BEE legislation has led to greater participation in the formal economy, or whether the benefits are going to a select few.

In 2026, brands that will resonate with Gen Z will be those willing to stand for something, even if it costs them something.

Reputation, the study suggests, is now shaped as much by delivery and peer credibility as by visibility.

In an era where 80% of senior leadership teams lack alignment on digital strategy, dentsu sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is doubling down on its 'Growth Transformation' mission. We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Ansa Leighton-Buys and Matthew Landon to our Business Transformation (BX SSA) division.

As South Africa’s e-commerce landscape continues to mature, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by keener value expectations, mobile-first behaviour and experience-led shopping.

Trends covered - Let’s get phygital/ Treatonomics hit the sweet spot/ Connectioneering turns ‘mehs’ into must haves/ First-party flex: get to know your customers IRL/ Cultural intelligence – the new brand currency.