U.S. digital advertising revenues reached a landmark high of $28.4 billion in the first quarter of 2019. This is the industry’s strongest Q1 on record, according to the latest IAB Internet Advertising Revenue Report figures released today by IAB and prepared by PwC US. Digital revenue for Q1 2019 estimates rose 18 percent over Q1 2018 at $23.9 billion and maintain the year-over-year growth trend.
“The continued growth of digital ad spend is a reflection of its ability to help brands and publishers reach consumers and build meaningful one-to-one relationships,” said Sue Hogan, Senior Vice President, Research and Measurement, IAB. "Digital marketing offers brands the scale and reach they need to grow, while also providing the data they need to optimize campaigns for efficiencies. These first-party insights allow for significant connections with consumers and long-term value for both.”
“These historic Q1 figures are in keeping with digital’s ongoing rise,” said David Silverman, Partner, PwC US. “Its diverse platforms are attracting audiences to share, shop, listen, learn, and be entertained. Brand dollars are naturally following mainstream consumer consumption."
The Q1 revenue estimates are based upon a survey of the largest companies, which are then projected to the overall market based upon recent historical revenue market share. The estimates are updated, when necessary, in connection with the more detailed analysis prepared for the IAB’s half year and full year reports.
The IAB Internet Advertising Revenue Report is underwritten by IAB and conducted independently by the New Media Group of PwC. The results are considered a reasonable measurement of interactive advertising revenues because the data is compiled directly from information supplied by companies selling advertising on the internet. The survey includes data concerning online advertising revenues from web sites, commercial online services, free email providers, and all other companies selling online advertising.
PwC does not audit the information and provides no opinion or other form of assurance with respect to the information.
Past reports are available at www.iab.com/adrevenuereport.
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About IAB
The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) empowers the media and marketing industries to thrive in the digital economy. Its membership is comprised of more than 650 leading media companies, brands, and the technology firms responsible for selling, delivering, and optimizing digital ad marketing campaigns. The trade group fields critical research on interactive advertising, while also educating brands, agencies, and the wider business community on the importance of digital marketing. In affiliation with the IAB Tech Lab, IAB develops technical standards and solutions. IAB is committed to professional development and elevating the knowledge, skills, expertise, and diversity of the workforce across the industry. Through the work of its public policy office in Washington, D.C., the trade association advocates for its members and promotes the value of the interactive advertising industry to legislators and policymakers. Founded in 1996, IAB is headquartered in New York City.
