‘We should own it’: Hershey’s programmatic chief on AI agents and media mix modeling

AI media buying agents steal the headlines, but some of the highest-impact applications of agentic technology by brand advertisers has been in the form of media mix modeling (MMM), systems that monitor the impact of ad investments and help to divine a marketer’s next move.

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Hershey’s has been working with companies like Mutinex and Tracer.tech to speed up media measurement reporting and, in turn, their media investment decisions. The confectioner spent a year developing a system of several AI agents that provide media modeling for campaigns over the course of weeks, not months.

Vinny Rinaldi, vp of media and marketing technology at Hershey’s, said the new approach has enabled the company to prioritize “relevance over reach,” elevate planning and strategic objectives above the cheap thrill of a low CPM, and link media strategy closer to business strategy. It’s also helped steer investment decisions, such as a recent lean into Reddit, and will be informing the advertiser’s approach to the current TV upfront season.

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Heineken shares its marketing strategy for the summer of soccer as World Cup hype ramps up

This story was first published by Digiday sibling Modern Retail.

Heineken USA is pouring more marketing dollars into soccer this year ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The brewing company, which has trademarked itself as “the official beer of soccer,” is not an official World Cup sponsor. However, it’s getting in on the larger summer soccer hype by launching a limited-edition soccer-themed 12-pack and 24-pack in retail partners across the U.S., including Publix. Heineken is also planning watch parties in various U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, Houston, Philadelphia, New York City, Miami and Dallas. And, it’s building out a new brand platform called “Fans Have More Friends” that consists of TV ads, events and more. The brand platform is a key part of Heineken’s strategy this year across major sporting events, as well as music festivals like Coachella.

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