Joe Rivers on LinkedIn: Introducing Universal Epic Universe (2024)

As is tradition… seeing the brand activations in my city of Buffalo. TASTEOFBUFFALO 2024!I ❤️ NY tour traversing the state of New York and surrounding areas to showcase the different landscapes and attractions that visitors and locals can enjoy. Interactive pieces throughout allowing for some engaging and informative exploration enticing people to go see it for themselves. Checkers mobile tour giving out fries. While not an interactive experience of the bus itself, the overall feel is to provide people the ability to go and try something.Visit Savannah. Ultimately taken back at the footprint. The environment also lends itself to giving attendees the ability to go through 4D experience of the city. Firsthand, I have been to Savannah and it’s quant and rich with history. Leta continue to see what else brews in this city when it comes to more activations and experiential. Visit Buffalo Niagara Buffalo Niagara Partnership Invest Buffalo Niagara #experiential #events #experiences

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The Convergence of B2B and B2C!We often see these both come up in our world of experiential and events. The line is blurring more and more these days. The overall trajectory that B2B and B2C are combining elements can be found in 3 distinct ways:Convergence of Expectations -The expectations of B2B buyers are increasingly mirroring those of B2C consumers. Decision-makers in businesses seek seamless, engaging, and personalized experiences similar to what they encounter in their personal lives.Digital Transformation - The digital transformation journey has accelerated in both sectors, driving the adoption of innovative technologies that enhance experiential marketing. This transformation is bridging the gap between B2B and B2C experiences, making them more alike in terms of execution and impact.Focus on Experience -There is a growing emphasis on the overall experience rather than just the product or service. Brands in both B2B and B2C are investing in creating holistic experiences that resonate emotionally with their audiences, fostering deeper connections and loyalty.Stats:Event Spend: According to Forrester, global spending on B2B events is projected to reach $500 billion in 2024, with a significant portion allocated to creating immersive and engaging experiences traditionally seen in B2C.Engagement Metrics: A study by Cvent revealed that 80% of B2B marketers believe that creating memorable experiences at events increases engagement and sales, mirroring the sentiment in B2C where 77% of marketers see experiential marketing as crucial for customer engagement.Funnily enough, I see it throughout the events industry attending festivals, shows, and pop-ups. Even more, discussions surround how B2B is adopting B2C tendencies and vice versa. We will continue to see this united front of the two!#b2b #b2c #marketing #experiential #events #advertising #thoughtleadership #business

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My friend Brett Hyman wrote this and really captured what some of us think and share. Budgets are being allocated more and more to deliver on experiential activation - however that looks whether it be an event, pop up, festival or trade show - and yet, it feels more and more still don’t understand what an experience is per se. Interesting statistics, reporting and analysis here. Thanks for sharing!

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The emotional power of retail has been evolving for a long time. Experiential retail stands out as a pivotal way to connect with brands. But why does it resonate so deeply with consumers? The answer lies in the emotions it evokes.- Love- Fear- Hope- Nostalgia- Community- Joy- Wonder- PassionIn doing some research it was fascinating to read some authors out there on how and why experiential retail resonates with people so much from these emotions.In Thinking, Fast and Slow, Daniel Kahneman explains the dual-system theory of human thinking: System 1 (fast, automatic, emotional). Experiential marketing primarily engages System 1, creating immediate emotional connections.Seth Godin, in Purple Cow, argues that remarkable experiences are what make brands stand out. He says "Remarkable marketing is the art of building things worth noticing right into your product or service."According to a research study published in the Journal of Consumer Research, 95% of purchasing decisions are subconscious and driven by emotions. Nostalgia can increase a consumer’s willingness to spend money on a product or service by 51%.It becomes interesting when you start to lay out the statistics and emotions. It rarely goes hand in hand as it is already hard enough to measure Return on Emotions. #ExperientialMarketing #RetailInnovation #BrandExperience #CustomerEngagement #EmotionalMarketing

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This is an amazing look into what we are seeing throughout architecture and design. Even more so, how this translates into experiential and events for multi-sensory environments that can be temporary or permanent.We see Gensler splitting up different aspects of where innovative looks and feelings are being implemented into each expertise:𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐊1. Future Workplace as a Compelling DestinationCreating office spaces that offer unique, engaging experiences can translate into immersive environments where employees feel inspired and connected. This could include interactive installations, virtual reality meeting rooms, and other tech-driven spaces that enhance productivity and collaboration.2. Building Transformation:Transforming underutilized spaces into dynamic, multifunctional environments can involve immersive design elements that engage users on multiple levels. This could include sensory experiences, interactive displays, and adaptable spaces that change based on user needs.𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐄𝐒1. 20-Minute Cities:Designing urban areas where essential services are within a 20-minute reach can include creating engaging public spaces that use technology and design to enhance the urban experience. Interactive wayfinding, augmented reality (AR) tours, and community hubs can all play a part.2. Mixed-Use Lifestyle Districts:Integrating retail, entertainment, and residential spaces into a cohesive experience can involve designing environments that are immersive and engaging. This might include digital art installations, mixed-reality experiences, and sensory-rich environments that encourage exploration and interaction.𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐘𝐋𝐄1. Ageless Communities:Designing spaces that cater to all ages can include creating environments that are not only accessible but also engaging for different generations. This might involve multi-sensory experiences, interactive installations, and adaptable spaces that appeal to a wide audience.2. Experience Multipliers:Creating environments that offer "experience multipliers" can mean designing spaces that provide multiple layers of engagement and interaction. This could include immersive art, interactive technology, and multi-functional spaces that surprise and delight users.𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇1. Sustainable Design as a Non-Negotiable:Designing with sustainability in mind can involve creating environments that are both immersive and eco-friendly. This might include using sustainable materials, incorporating natural elements, and designing for energy efficiency.2. Conversions to Address Health and Housing:Transforming spaces to improve health and housing can involve creating environments that are not only functional but also engaging and supportive of well-being. This might include biophilic design, wellness-focused spaces, and environments that encourage healthy living.https://lnkd.in/gugV7DhD#MixedUseDevelopment #EcoFriendly #ExperienceDesign #Architecture

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As someone who tends to venture to cities across the globe, there is something special and serene about getting away from it all. My girlfriend Taylor Strickland and I ventured away to work remotely in West Virginia - a special shoutout to a friend who has a wonderful oasis of an Airbnb, thank you Brittney Leeb Scott! - and it dawned on me this particular topic after some inspirational conversation...Multi-Sensory Experiences of City Living vs. Being Out in Nature - this was exactly what I wanted to convey regarding experiential marketing. The most simplistic concept can be so complex when comparing and contrasting these ways of life.𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠𝘝𝘪𝘴𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘴:Architecture and Urban Landscape: Skyscrapers, busy streets, billboards, and neon signs create a dynamic and constantly changing visual environment.Crowds: The presence of people, vehicles, and public transportation contributes to a bustling, sometimes chaotic visual scene.𝘚𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘴:Traffic Noise: Constant sounds of cars, buses, and subways.Human Activity: Conversations, footsteps, street vendors, and urban wildlife (like pigeons).Construction: Frequent sounds of building and infrastructure development.𝘚𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘴:Food: Diverse aromas from restaurants, food trucks, and street vendors.Pollution: Emissions from vehicles and industrial activity.Nature: Occasionally, scents from parks, gardens, and urban green spaces.𝘛𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘦:Surfaces: A variety of textures from concrete, glass, metal, and asphalt.Weather: Exposure to urban heat islands or cooler shaded areas from buildings.𝘛𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦:Diverse Cuisines: Access to a wide array of global foods and street fare.Urban Farming: Fresh produce from city markets and community gardens.𝐁𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝘝𝘪𝘴𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘴:Natural Landscapes: Mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and open skies provide expansive and calming views.Wildlife: Observing animals in their natural habitats, from birds to insects and mammals.Seasons: Changing colors and scenery throughout the year.𝘚𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘴:Natural Ambiance: Birdsong, rustling leaves, flowing water, and wind.Silence: The profound quietude, interrupted occasionally by natural sounds, offers a sense of peace.𝘚𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘴:Fresh Air: The clean, crisp scent of unpolluted air.Flora: Aromas from flowers, trees, and earth, often varying by season and weather.Water: Freshwater scents from lakes, rivers, and rain.𝘛𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘦:Natural Textures: The feel of grass, soil, tree bark, and water.Weather: Direct exposure to natural elements like sun, rain, and wind.𝘛𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦:Wild Foods: The taste of wild berries, fresh fish, or foraged herbs.Campfire Cooking: Simple, hearty meals cooked over an open flame.Both offer variety and immersive daily interactions. And yet, they have different stimulation levels and quality of sensory activation. A truly profound way of thinking and outlook!#experiential #immersive #experiences #behavorialmarketing

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The culmination of influencers, Cannes Lions, and overall B2B/B2C marketing.By seamlessly blending creativity with strategic networking, brands have created immersive experiences that allow ad executives to connect, collaborate, and innovate.Highlights include:🔹 Interactive Learning: Engaging sessions with industry leaders who shared insights on leveraging LinkedIn for effective B2B campaigns. 🔹 Real-Time Networking: Facilitated connections through tailored events, enabling meaningful conversations and potential partnerships. 🔹 Showcasing Success Stories: Presenting case studies that highlight the impactful use of LinkedIn's tools and services in driving B2B growth.LinkedIn's presence at Cannes Lions exemplifies how experiential marketing can redefine B2B interactions, fostering a community of innovation and collaboration. Marcus G. will dive into this more on Friday on our LinkedIn Live!#CannesLions2024 #B2BMarketing #ExperientialMarketing #LinkedIn #Innovation #Networking

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The next episode! The Evolution of Engagement with Marcus G., and myself. We will be discussing Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity and the upcoming activations throughout the summer.We also have some amazing things to recap from the past month as well as brand partnerships.Tune in on Friday at 12pm EST!#experiential #events #marketing #brandpartnerships #linkedinlive #thoughtleadership

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What makes something immersive in experiential?1. 𝘔𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪-𝘚𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘌𝘯𝘨𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵:𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐮𝐚𝐥: High-quality visuals, including interactive displays, VR/AR, and creative aesthetics.𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲: Music, sound effects, and voiceovers that enhance the atmosphere.𝐓𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐞: Hands-on activities, textures, and physical interactions.𝐎𝐥𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲: Scents that relate to the experience or brand.𝐆𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲: Tasting elements that can tie into the theme or product.2. 𝘚𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨:𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐜:Creating a compelling story that participants can follow and become a part of.𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Tailoring the experience to individual participants, making them feel unique and valued.3. 𝘌𝘯𝘷𝘪𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘋𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯:𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲: Designing the physical space to align with the brand and narrative.𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐬: Creating environments that transport participants to another place or time.4. 𝘌𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘌𝘯𝘨𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵:𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬: Crafting moments that evoke strong emotions, from joy to nostalgia.𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬: Using characters or brand ambassadors that participants can connect with.5. 𝘚𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯:𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬: Encouraging group activities and social sharing.𝐔𝐬𝐞𝐫-𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭: Creating opportunities for participants to share their experiences on social media.It is highly impactful as the entire advertising industry continues to understand why consumer activity does what they do. It becomes behavioral marketing. And in tandem, it is a launchpad to how experiential intertwines into the marketing mix globally.#experiential #events #marketing #advertising

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