Blue Hour Studios' newest report guides brands on how to revise outmoded social media marketing strategiesSwell.AI reimagines how social impact is measured, leveraging a psychographic approach for more authentic content creation and stronger audience engagementNEW YORK, Jan. 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- While advertisers will spend $8.14 billion on influencer marketing in 2024, traditional demographic-based approaches are failing to deliver results, according to new research from Blue Hour Studios, Horizon Media's full-service social and influencer agency.Horizon Media (PRNewsfoto/Horizon Media)The study, "The New Rules of Influence," calls out the brand challenge and opportunities represented by the rise of influencers. As Blue Hour Studios' research shows, a "random piece of content" from a creator is as, if not more, influential in purchases than other content sources. An overwhelming 80% of consumers agree a "random piece of content" will influence them to buy something on social media."Influencer marketing has evolved from a 'nice-to-have' into a strategic imperative, but many brands are still operating on best practices from 2015," said Monika Ratner, Head of Growth at Blue Hour Studios. "Our research shows that the fundamental rules of influence have shifted. Success today requires moving beyond demographic matching to focus on shared interests and values."The comprehensive study of 1,000 American social media users across generations revealed three key principles for effective influencer marketing:Interests Over Demographics: The study found an influencer's connection to interests is nearly twice as impactful as traditional demographics in driving sales

Tropical Smoothie Cafe has selected Horizon Media as its agency of record.

Leading fast-casual brand taps Horizon Media to amplify brand visibility and drive guest engagement across key marketsNEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tropical Smoothie Cafe, the nation's largest smoothie chain and a leader in the fast-casual category, has named Horizon Media its media agency of record following a competitive review. This partnership is set to elevate the brand's national footprint through Horizon Media's data-driven strategies, advanced technology and innovative media solutions