Generative AI transforms the advertising industry

The rise of generative AI is fundamentally altering the advertising industry by accelerating the speed of design, production, and distribution. According to the SA Social Media Landscape Report 2025, 78% of marketers in South Africa are already utilizing AI tools. Globally, 90% of CMOs suggest that craft and design are becoming increasingly vital for maintaining brand distinction in an AI-enabled environment.

While AI can rapidly generate hundreds of visual executions and refine copy, experts argue that advertising must be treated as a craft rather than a production line. In markets like South Africa, human insight remains essential for ensuring cultural relevance. While AI can process data, it lacks the human experience required to understand the nuances of different languages, cultures, and lived experiences necessary to create authentic connections with consumers.