More than 170 people – clients from various MCN agencies and MCN staff attended the Google@MCN event which focused on content, video as a strong new channel, data, digital branding and creativity. The event was driven by Ghassan Harfouche, Group CEO at MCN who wanted to highlight MCN’s digital awareness and share the potential of Google’s multiple channels as opportunities for clients.
A strong Google MENA team represented and shared the power of video and content – particularly focusing on YouTube as a strong, proven engagement channel. Speakers included Ari Kesisoglu – Managing Director, Middle East North Africa, Google / The future of Video; Wael Attili, Creative Founder, Kharabeesh / New production and content: How is online video changing the game?; Mohamad Mourad – Google Gulf Regional Manager / Branding with Google; Alfonso de Gaetano, Industry Leader and MCN’s own Mohamd Itani, General Manager Platform5 / Data in MENA: what are we doing to have better regional video planning, Google Gulf region; and Matthew Ryan, Senior Creative – the ZOO SEEMA Google.
Live twitter streaming from the event reflected on : “American idol trainings drop to 6 at an average. State of tv ratings declining globally” (zubair s siddiqui); 91% of generation C have a connected smart phone next to them while sleeping (Initiative MENA); Move people to choose your brand on @youtube #google@mcn digital branding using technology (Seton Vermaak); First screen (TV) or third screen (mobile)? People are more attached to their phones (Communicate ME).