SocialDay Forum Session: Kellie Espina, Head of UK, Creative Strategy, Snap

Aug 25

The countdown is on to SocialDay Forum 2022: the event helping social media marketers do their jobs better. We’ve been working on an incredible line-up this year, with speakers from the major social media platforms, biggest brands and most up-and-coming agencies.

One of these speakers is Kellie Espina, Head of UK, Creative Strategy, Snap who will be talking about:

Engaging the next generation: How AR can be used to develop stronger connections with GenZ

What’s the focus of your SocialDay talk?

The title says it all, but really my role is to facilitate and moderate a discussion with the panel of experts so I'll let them do most of the talking. I'll represent the audience and put questions that we all want answering.

What’s the most exciting thing you’ve seen on social media in the last 12 months?

Augmented Reality (AR) has been steadily growing in the past five years with Global Data estimating that it will generate revenues of £115bn by 2030. In fact, new research has found that over half of younger audiences are more likely to pay attention to an ad that incorporates AR.

Consumers have become immersed in new shopping habits and new ways of learning and brands must adapt their strategies in response. This is particularly relevant when it comes to Gen Z. In fact, research by IBM shows that 50% of 16–24-year-olds are more interested in retailers offering more immersive shopping experiences.

So how can brands use AR to create deeper connections with the next generation and what does that look like in practice?

What are the key takeaways from your session?

In this talk, I will explain how creative aspects of AR can be used effectively to engage with Gen Z. From trying on products before buying to transporting consumers to another world and using it as a tool for education, the opportunities with AR are endless.

Brands have an opportunity to engage consumers in an immersive way across the purchasing journey.

What challenges do you feel you will be facing in the coming years in your role?

Technology is always evolving, always changing. We know this because at Snap, we’re constantly innovating!

The biggest challenge - and also the thing I’m most excited about - is helping more brands realise the potential power of augmented reality to tell their stories.

For many brands, knowing where to begin with AR can feel like a challenge. But the reality is, it’s much easier than you think! We’re focused on democratising AR so more brands can unlock the benefits.

Learn more about Kellie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-espina/