Weekly Report: US Open creator backlash exposes brands' event strategy gaps

Viral videos of influencers disrupting US Open matches exposed how many brands still lack clear systems for briefing talent, picking the right creators or vetting whether an event even fits their brand. Plus, WPP is set to retain Coca-Cola's global media, data and technology business but won't compete for its North America media pitch; KFC's new Open House concept restaurant joins a wave of experimental formats as quick service chains test menu, pricing and design ideas before rolling them out at scale; Amazon Ads becomes ChatGPT's biggest ad tech partner, letting marketers reserve ad inventory inside the chatbot; and QuikTrip's Home Bun activation drew more than 230 million views. Host Parker Herren breaks down what each story means for marketers navigating creator accountability, agency fragmentation, experimental innovation and the rise of conversational advertising. Subscribe for weekly industry news roundups, plus biweekly deep-dive conversations with Ad Age reporters. Dig deeper on the topics mentioned in this week's episode: ~WPP is set to win Coca-Cola's global agency review ~Inside fast food's big bet on experimental restaurant concepts ~Amazon becomes a new funnel for buying ChatGPT ads ~3 creator event mistakes the US Open exposed—and how to avoid them ~How QuikTrip dreamed up its viral in-stadium MLB hot dog game