From advancements in streaming services to holiday shopping, brands are getting creative this week to incentivize their audiences. Learn more about all the latest marketing and advertising campaigns in our Weekly Must Reads.

Netflix Introduces Highly Anticipated Ad Tier

After much speculation and anticipation, Netflix’s ad-supported tier has arrived. Streaming fans can now watch their favorite Netflix content at a discounted price ($6.99 per month) in exchange for regular ad breaks, made up of several 15- and 30-second spots. Anheuser-Busch was one of the first companies to jump on the advertising opportunity. Last week, ads for Michelob Ultra and Bud Light were the first alcohol promotions to run on the platform.

Other brands hoping to land a slot in Netflix’s advertising inventory have some steep competition. According to the brand’s president of worldwide advertising, their spots are already nearly sold out. So far, many sponsors have come from the auto, travel, retail and luxury industries. For now, political ads will not be allowed to run on the platform. Dive into more details about Netflix’s first ads here: https://www.adweek.com/convergent-tv/netflix-and-booze-ab-inbev-to-air-first-beer-spot-on-new-ad-supported-tier/?itm_source=parsely-api

Disney+ Adds Exclusive Shopping Opportunities

Meanwhile, Disney+ is looking to add exclusive merchandise opportunities to its platform, in addition to its own ad-supported tier. Last week, the Walt Disney Company announced it had started limited testing for themed merchandise available exclusively to Disney+ subscribers. The products, which include collectible light sabers and clothing tied to Disney+ content, will be available to subscribers one week before hitting the shelves for the general public.

This is the latest strategy Disney has tried to expand growth through its streaming platform. Previously, the company offered theme park and hotel discounts to Disney+ members. Find out more about Disney’s creative strategies to promote the streaming service here: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/01/business/media/disney-plus-streaming-shopping.html

Walmart’s Case of the Mondays

Walmart is getting into the holiday spirit with the help of the 90s hit movie, “Office Space.” The film famously coined the phrase “a case of the Mondays,” so in keeping with that theme, Walmart will air new ads featuring the “Office Space” cast exclusively on Mondays in November. Each spot will focus on some of the retailer’s best holiday deals, while also giving consumers something to look forward to on the much-dreaded Mondays.

The new campaign from Walmart touches on several trends from the upcoming holiday season. Several major retailers have announced plans to move away from Black Friday sales, and instead offer compelling deals at several times throughout the season. We’ve also seen a resurgence of 90s and early 2000s nostalgia, from fashion trends to cult classic movies. Learn more about the new campaign and Walmart’s holiday season strategy here: https://www.marketingdive.com/news/walmart-office-space-nostalgia-black-friday-holiday-marketing/635517/

Postmates Travels Back in Time to Save the Day

In their new ad series, Postmates imagines what might have happened during some of history’s biggest disasters if only they had food delivery. The first spot, which depicts the assassination of Julius Caesar, shows the ruler’s colleagues complaining about their workload. Just before they can make their strike, a Postmates delivery person arrives with pizzas for everyone as a thank-you from Caesar. In another ad, Postmates delivers cold brew coffees to the lookout crew on the deck of the Titanic. The ads have received rave reviews so far, thanks to their clever jokes and famous subject matter.

The first ads kicked off last week on social and TV, while out of home versions will start popping up next month. You can view all three videos from the new “Hit the Spot” campaign here: https://adage.com/creativity/work/postmates-saves-day-famous-tragedies-throughout-history/2447421