In the ever-evolving digital landscape, the synergy of artificial intelligence (AI) and video marketing has become a game-changer, profoundly impacting consumer engagement. This transformation holds significant promise for the Muslim consumer market, offering tailored content that respects cultural values and enhances user experience. Let’s delve into the trends and opportunities shaping this exciting era.

The Rise of AI in Video Marketing

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing video marketing by enabling the creation of personalized, dynamic, and highly engaging content. According to HubSpot, one of the disruptive AI video trends is the use of deep learning algorithms to analyze viewer behavior and preferences, allowing marketers to deliver customized content that resonates on a personal level.

Bryan Hayes from LinkedIn highlights that AI-powered tools are now capable of generating video content autonomously, reducing production costs and time while maintaining high quality. This technological advancement democratizes video creation, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes to connect with their audience effectively.

Changing Video Consumption Patterns

The way consumers engage with video content is shifting rapidly. HubSpot’s insights reveal that short-form videos are gaining popularity, driven by platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. These bite-sized videos are perfect for capturing attention quickly and delivering concise messages, a format that appeals to today’s fast-paced lifestyles.

Moreover, interactive videos are on the rise. Idomoo notes that these videos allow viewers to engage directly with the content, creating a more immersive and memorable experience. For Muslim consumers, this means opportunities for interactive storytelling that can include religious and cultural nuances, fostering a deeper connection.

Tailoring Video Content for Muslim Consumers

Muslim consumers represent a significant and growing market segment, and creating content that aligns with their values is crucial. Muslim Ad Network emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive video ads that resonate with Islamic principles. Videos that incorporate halal lifestyle elements, modest fashion, and ethical consumerism are particularly effective.

Generative AI offers exciting possibilities for Muslim marketing and advertising. It enables the creation of personalized content that respects religious sentiments and cultural preferences. For instance, generative AI can help design ads featuring modest fashion or halal food products, ensuring they appeal to the target audience authentically (read our previous article).

Key Statistics and Insights

• Personalized Content: Personalized video content generated by AI can increase engagement rates by up to 20%, as consumers are more likely to connect with content that feels tailored to their interests and needs (HubSpot).
• Short-Form Video Popularity: Short-form videos are expected to account for over 80% of all internet traffic by 2024, highlighting the importance of adapting content strategies to this format (HubSpot).
• Interactive Videos: Interactive videos can boost conversion rates by 2-3 times compared to traditional linear videos, making them a powerful tool for engaging Muslim consumers (Idomoo).

Conclusion

The integration of AI and video marketing presents unparalleled opportunities for engaging Muslim consumers with content that is both innovative and respectful of their cultural values. By leveraging these technologies, businesses can create impactful, personalized, and culturally relevant videos that resonate deeply with their audience. As consumption patterns continue to evolve, staying ahead of these trends will be key to connecting with the Muslim market in meaningful and effective ways.

For further insights, explore the following articles:

• Disruptive AI Video Trends Transforming Marketing
• How Video Consumption is Changing
• AI Revolutionizing Video Marketing Trends 2024
• Video Ads for Muslim Consumer Engagement
• Generative AI for Muslim Marketing and Advertising

Get in Touch

Are you ready to leverage the power of AI and video marketing to engage Muslim consumers more effectively? Contact Muslim Ad Network today to discover how we can help you create culturally resonant, impactful advertising campaigns that connect with your audience authentically. Let’s take your marketing strategy to the next level together!

The post Leveraging AI and Video Marketing Trends to Engage Muslim Consumers appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

Disclaimer: The character of Emily Chang is fictional and created for the purpose of this blog post. Her story is designed to provide an illustrative and pragmatic approach to understanding the strategies and challenges faced by CMOs in penetrating the Muslim market.

Emily Chang: Exploring the Untapped Potential and Challenges of the Muslim Market

Meet Emily Chang, the dynamic Chief Marketing Officer at GOALIATH, a multinational consumer goods corporation. Emily is known for her strategic vision and leadership, and she is always on the lookout for new market opportunities to sustain and increase GOALIATH’s global market share. But you see, Emily Chang had a problem.

The Untapped Potential

Emily realized that the $2 trillion Muslim market was a significant opportunity due to its purchasing power and influence. However, she knew that traditional marketing tactics wouldn’t suffice. To succeed, she needed culturally sensitive and inclusive strategies.

Key considerations included Halal certification and compliance, ensuring products met religious standards. Emily also recognized the diversity within the Muslim market, requiring tailored strategies that balanced global brand consistency with local cultural relevance.

Read: Embracing Diversity in Halal Advertising: A Necessity, Not an Option

Overcoming stereotypes and misconceptions was another challenge. Emily aimed to develop marketing campaigns that respected and reflected Muslim values, avoiding any missteps that could harm the brand’s reputation.

Emily’s strategic approach focused on understanding and honoring the values of the Muslim community to unlock the market’s potential.

Understanding the Muslim Market

Emily knew that, to succeed, she needed to understand the demographics, purchasing power, and key cultural and religious considerations of the Muslim market. This market was not only vast but also diverse, with varying cultural norms and values across different regions. Emily had to ensure that her marketing efforts respected these values and communicated them clearly and respectfully. Adherence to the Islamic advertising principles was paramount.

Balancing Global Brand Consistency with Local Cultural Relevance

Maintaining a consistent global brand image while adapting to local cultural norms was no easy feat. Emily needed to develop strategies that balanced global consistency with local relevance by leveraging local cultural insights. This meant creating marketing campaigns that resonated with local audiences while still aligning with GOALIATH’s overall brand identity. It required a delicate balance of understanding local customs, traditions, and consumer behavior and integrating these insights into the brand’s global strategy.

To achieve the balance between maintaining a consistent global brand image and adapting to local cultural norms, Emily took several strategic steps:

1. Conducting In-Depth Market Research

Emily initiated comprehensive market research to gather insights into the local customs, traditions, and consumer behavior of the Muslim market. This involved studying cultural, social, and religious factors that influence purchasing decisions. By understanding these nuances, Emily could tailor marketing strategies to resonate with local audiences.

2. Collaborating with Local Experts

Emily collaborated with local marketing experts and cultural consultants who had a deep understanding of the Muslim market. These experts provided valuable insights and guidance on how to adapt GOALIATH’s marketing campaigns to align with local cultural norms while maintaining the brand’s global identity.

3. Developing Culturally Relevant Campaigns

Using the insights gained from market research and local experts, Emily developed marketing campaigns that were culturally relevant and respectful. These campaigns highlighted GOALIATH’s commitment to inclusivity and understanding of the Muslim community’s values. By doing so, Emily ensured that the brand’s messaging resonated with local audiences.

4. Ensuring Consistent Brand Messaging

Emily worked closely with her team to ensure that the core brand messaging remained consistent across all markets. This involved creating a unified brand narrative that could be adapted to different cultural contexts without losing its essence. By maintaining a consistent brand voice, Emily ensured that GOALIATH’s global identity was preserved.

 5. Leveraging Local Influencers

Emily partnered with local influencers who were highly respected and had a strong presence within the Muslim community. These influencers played a key role in amplifying GOALIATH’s marketing messages and fostering trust with local consumers. By utilizing their influence, Emily successfully strengthened the connection with the target audience.

6. Monitoring and Adapting Strategies

Emily continuously monitored the performance of the marketing campaigns and gathered feedback from local consumers. This allowed her to identify any areas that needed improvement and make necessary adjustments. By staying agile and responsive, Emily ensured that GOALIATH’s marketing strategies remained effective and relevant.

By taking these steps, Emily successfully balanced global brand consistency with local cultural relevance, allowing GOALIATH to effectively penetrate the Muslim market while respecting and honoring its values.

Navigating Diverse Cultural Norms and Values

Different regions had unique cultural norms and values that had to be respected. Muslims in Australia may not have the same cultural norms as those in the United Kingdom for example. This can be the case even if both groups originated from the same immigrant background; especially with the younger generation.

Missteps could lead to backlash and damage to the brand’s reputation. Emily needed comprehensive market research to understand consumer behavior and preferences in each region. This involved studying the cultural, social, and religious factors that influenced purchasing decisions and tailoring marketing strategies accordingly. By doing so, Emily aimed to build trust and credibility with Muslim consumers, ensuring that GOALIATH’s products and services were perceived as authentic and respectful.

To address the unique cultural norms and values of different regions, Emily took several strategic steps:

1. Conducting Regional Market Research

Emily initiated comprehensive market research specific to each region. This involved gathering data on cultural, social, and religious factors that influenced consumer behavior and preferences. By understanding these regional nuances, Emily could tailor marketing strategies to resonate with local audiences.

2. Engaging with Local Communities

Emily engaged with local communities to gain firsthand insights into their cultural norms and values. This included attending local events, participating in community activities, and conducting focus groups. By building relationships with local communities, Emily was able to gather valuable feedback and understand their unique needs and preferences.

3. Customizing Marketing Campaigns

Using the insights gained from regional market research and community engagement, Emily customized marketing campaigns to align with local cultural norms. This involved creating region-specific content that reflected the values and traditions of the local audience. By doing so, Emily ensured that GOALIATH’s marketing efforts were perceived as authentic and respectful.

4. Training and Sensitizing the Marketing Team

Emily provided training and sensitization programs for her marketing team to ensure they understood the cultural nuances of each region. This included educating the team on cultural sensitivities, religious practices, and social norms. By fostering cultural awareness within her team, Emily ensured that all marketing efforts were respectful and considerate.

5. Collaborating with Local Influencers and Partners

Emily teamed up with local influencers and partners who possessed a deep understanding of the regional culture. These influencers and partners were instrumental in amplifying GOALIATH’s marketing messages and establishing trust with local consumers. By leveraging their influence, Emily succeeded in forging a stronger connection with the target audience.

6. Monitoring and Adapting Strategies

Emily continuously monitored the performance of the marketing campaigns and collected feedback from local consumers. This enabled her to pinpoint areas needing improvement and make necessary adjustments. By staying agile and responsive, Emily ensured that GOALIATH’s marketing strategies remained effective and relevant.

Through these efforts, Emily adeptly navigated the diverse cultural norms and values of different regions, building trust and credibility with Muslim consumers. As a result, GOALIATH’s products and services were perceived as authentic and respectful.

Overcoming Stereotypes and Misconceptions

Stereotypes and misconceptions about the Muslim market could hinder effective marketing. Emily had to develop culturally sensitive marketing campaigns that respected and reflected Muslim values. This involved challenging existing stereotypes and promoting a more accurate and positive representation of the Muslim community. Emily’s goal was to create marketing messages that resonated with Muslim consumers on a deeper level, fostering a sense of inclusion and respect. By doing so, she aimed to build a strong and loyal customer base within the Muslim market.

To address stereotypes and misconceptions about the Muslim market, Emily took several strategic steps:

1. Conducting Cultural Sensitivity Training

Emily organized cultural sensitivity training for her marketing team to ensure they understood the values and beliefs of the Muslim community. This training helped the team recognize and challenge existing stereotypes, fostering a more respectful and inclusive approach to marketing.

2. Engaging with the Muslim Community

Emily actively engaged with the Muslim community to gain a deeper understanding of their values, aspirations, and concerns. This involved participating in community events, collaborating with Muslim organizations, and conducting focus groups. By building relationships with the community, Emily gathered valuable insights that informed her marketing strategies.

3. Creating Authentic and Respectful Campaigns

Using the insights gained from community engagement, Emily developed marketing campaigns that were authentic and respectful. These campaigns aimed to reflect the true values and aspirations of the Muslim community, challenging stereotypes and promoting a positive representation. Emily ensured that the messaging resonated with Muslim consumers on a deeper level, fostering a sense of inclusion and respect.

4. Highlighting Positive Stories and Role Models

Emily concentrated on highlighting positive stories and role models within the Muslim community. She showcased the achievements and contributions of Muslim individuals and groups to counter negative stereotypes and promote a more accurate and positive image. This strategy strengthened the connection with the target audience and fostered a sense of pride and belonging.

5. Collaborating with Influencers and Advocates

Emily collaborated with prominent Muslim influencers and advocates who were well-regarded within their community. Their involvement helped to amplify GOALIATH’s marketing messages and establish trust with Muslim consumers. Utilizing their influence, Emily fostered a more authentic and relatable connection with the target audience.

6. Monitoring and Adapting Campaigns

Emily continuously monitored the performance of the marketing campaigns and gathered feedback from the Muslim community. This allowed her to identify any areas that needed improvement and make necessary adjustments. By staying agile and responsive, Emily ensured that GOALIATH’s marketing strategies remained effective and respectful.

By taking these steps, Emily successfully developed culturally sensitive marketing campaigns that respected and reflected Muslim values. This approach helped challenge existing stereotypes, promote a more accurate and positive representation of the Muslim community, and build a strong and loyal customer base within the Muslim market.

Here is a side-by-side comparison of the steps CMOs can take to ensure each challenge of penetrating the Muslim market is met pragmatically and head-on. There is some overlap in some cases but the idea behind the strategy is tailored to the desired outcome for that particular challenge.

Tune in to the second part to read about the internal strategies and challenges theat Emily faced, in attempting to penetrate the Muslim market.

Conclusion

Emily’s journey to penetrate the Muslim market was challenging but rewarding. By embracing culturally sensitive marketing and partnering with experts, she was able to unlock the potential of the $2 trillion Muslim market. The result? GOALIATH saw a significant increase in market share, revenue growth, and brand loyalty within the Muslim market. Now, it’s your turn. Are you ready to take the leap and achieve success in this untapped market?

The post Cultural Sensitivity Meets Strategy: A CMO’s Journey to Muslim Market Dominance Part 1 appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

In the ultra-integrated metaverse world, the intersection of culture and commerce has led to a burgeoning interest in catering to diverse consumer preferences. Within this landscape, the rising demand for halal and Muslim-friendly products and services in Western markets presents a unique challenge. However, the amazing progress of brands now selling real-world products on platforms like Roblox highlights a promising shift toward meeting these diverse consumer needs. But your brand needs to move fast to get well-positioned to offer halal products in this realm.

Shifting Demographics and Market Demand

The demographic shift toward a younger, more diverse population is reshaping consumer behavior. Muslim millennials and Gen Z cohorts have already established themselves as influential consumers with specific preferences for halal and ethically produced goods. However, many industries have yet to fully engage these demographics. The focus is now shifting toward the emerging Gen Alpha Muslims, born after 2010, who are growing up in a digital-first world. Understanding their preferences and behaviors is crucial for brands aiming to serve this new generation effectively.

The demographic shift toward a younger, more diverse population reshapes consumer behavior. Muslim millennials and Gen Z cohorts have already established themselves as influential consumers with specific preferences for halal and ethically produced goods. However, many industries have yet to engage these demographics fully.

The focus is now shifting toward the emerging Gen Alpha Muslims, born after 2010, who are growing up in a digital-first world. Understanding their preferences and behaviors is crucial for brands aiming to serve this new generation effectively. Gen Alpha is characterized by its digital nativity, with a significant portion of its interactions and purchases occurring online. They are influenced by social media, online content creators, and digital marketing strategies.

Brands looking to engage Gen Alpha Muslims should prioritize digital engagement, authenticity, and ethical practices. This generation values transparency and social responsibility, much like their predecessors⁶. Additionally, they are likely to be influenced by the digital content they consume, making it essential for brands to maintain a strong online presence and engage with influencers who resonate with this demographic.

Opportunities and Challenges in the Metaverse

The metaverse presents a novel opportunity for brands to engage with young Muslim consumers. Companies like E.L.F Cosmetics and Walmart have already ventured into platforms like Roblox, creating immersive e-commerce experiences that bridge the virtual and real worlds. 

For example, E.L.F Cosmetics’ virtual kiosk in Roblox allows users over 13 to purchase real-world products, blending the lines between digital interaction and physical commerce. Similarly, Walmart’s partnership with Roblox enables users to buy real-world items within the gaming platform, testing the viability of virtual shopping.

For Muslim brands, navigating the metaverse involves understanding Islamic jurisprudence concerning digital content. Islamic teachings generally prohibit the creation and depiction of animate objects, except in cases of necessity. Therefore, brands must ensure their virtual representations and content comply with these principles. This includes focusing on inanimate objects and being cautious with avatars and characters to avoid conflicts with religious guidelines.

You may also want to read: Is the Metaverse the New Online Frontier for Halal Brands?

Islamic Jurisprudence and Ethical Considerations

Disclaimer: Muslim Ad Network does not claim to have knowledge of Islamic Jurisprudence. We can only tell you about the opportunities in advertising for your brand. We do feel compelled as Muslims to make you aware of the Islamic standpoint(s) on certain methods or platforms you may want to use for your brand. This is because our motivation is to help brands grow awareness online in a halal way. However, we can only tell you the general standpoint(s) on a high level. You may need to consult people of knowledge for better decision-making.

Brands targeting Muslim consumers must be mindful of Islamic jurisprudence and ethical considerations in their marketing and product offerings. The general Islamic prohibition against depicting animate objects can extend to digital environments, impacting how brands create avatars, characters, and other digital representations. Additionally, there are strict guidelines against promoting activities or content that contradict Islamic principles, such as gambling, violence, and inappropriate behavior.

However, scholars have permitted certain exceptions for educational and developmental purposes, such as using stuffed animals and toys for children’s learning and comfort. This opens up possibilities for brands to create halal-compliant content and products that cater to younger audiences while adhering to Islamic values and advertising principles.

The Role of Advertising in Muslim Consumerism

Effective advertising is crucial for brands aiming to capture the Muslim market. Muslim Ad Network (MAN) emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive advertising that resonates with Muslim consumers’ values and lifestyles. This includes using appropriate language, avoiding controversial imagery, and highlighting halal certification and ethical production practices.

MAN also highlights the importance of leveraging digital platforms to reach younger Muslim audiences. Social media, influencer marketing, and content creation tailored to Muslim interests can significantly enhance brand visibility and engagement. Understanding the nuances of Muslim consumer behavior and preferences is key to developing successful advertising campaigns.

Consumer Protection and Ethical Marketing

Marketing to young, impressionable audiences raises significant ethical considerations, particularly in the metaverse. Your brand must balance creating engaging content with promoting responsible consumerism. This is especially important in immersive environments where gamification can significantly influence behavior. Gamification can enhance customer engagement and create enjoyable experiences, but it also has the potential to manipulate consumer behavior and encourage excessive consumption.

To address these concerns, your brand should implement parental controls and educational content to help mitigate negative effects and provide enriching experiences aligned with Muslim values. Parental controls can help monitor and restrict access to certain types of content, ensuring that young users are exposed to appropriate material. Additionally, educational content can promote responsible consumerism and digital literacy, helping young audiences understand the implications of their online interactions.

By prioritizing ethical marketing practices and responsibly leveraging technology, your brand can positively impact young Muslim consumers while respecting their values and promoting a healthy digital environment.

Conclusion

As consumer behavior continues to evolve, brands and marketers must anticipate the preferences of Gen Alpha Muslims, who are growing up with unique perspectives in a digital age. By addressing the shortcomings in engaging earlier generations and leveraging insights from ongoing studies, brands can position themselves to resonate with and serve the emerging Muslim consumer base. With a strategic approach combining cultural sensitivity, innovation, and inclusivity, businesses can foster harmonious and mutually beneficial interactions with Muslim consumers in Western markets.

The post An Update on Navigating Muslim Consumerism in the Metaverse appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

Introduction: The Bitter Aftertaste of Failure

So your last Eid campaign gave you a sour taste – like overcooked biryani. But fear not! We’ve dissected our mistakes, marinated in insights, and cooked up a recipe for success. It’s never too early to lick your wounds and strategize for next year, Let’s dive into the spices that’ll turn our next Eid campaign into a feast for the senses.

1. Cultural Sensitivity: The Missing Ingredient

From Generic to Genuine: Crafting an Authentic Eid Campaign

Many Eid campaigns resemble a confetti shower of clichéd greetings. Both Muslim and mainstream toss around “Eid Mubarak” like a handful of glitter – pretty but lacking substance. But Eid isn’t just about dates and desserts; it’s a rich tapestry of emotions, traditions, and connections.

The Solution: Authenticity as Our Secret Spice

1. Understand Eid Traditions

Qurbani (Sacrifice): Dive into the significance. Explore how families prepare, perform, and distribute sacrificial meat. Highlight the aspect of giving to the less fortunate – how it reaches those in need.

Prayers and Reflection: Capture the communal prayers – the rows of worshippers, the whispered supplications. Show the serenity of the mosque during Eid Salah. The spiritual side of things is essential to avoid commercializing Eid like Christmas is and your brand drowning in the noise.

Feasting and Togetherness: Showcase families gathered around tables, sharing biryani, kebabs, and sheer khurma (a festival vermicelli pudding ). It’s not just food; it’s love served on plates.

2. Avoid Stereotypes, Embrace Authentic Imagery

No More Stock Photos: Minimize generic images of crescent moons and lanterns. Instead, capture real moments – a child’s wide-eyed excitement, an elder’s wrinkled smile during Eid hugs.

Diverse Faces: Eid isn’t a monolith. It’s celebrated by Muslims worldwide – from Indonesia to Morocco. Show diverse faces, clothing, and traditions. Let every Muslim feel seen.

3. Collaborate with Muslim Creators

Invite Creativity: Partner with Muslim artists, photographers, and writers. They’ll infuse your campaign with cultural nuances, personal stories, and genuine passion.

User-Generated Content: Encourage your community to share their Eid moments. Their authenticity will resonate far more than staged photos.

All of the above is also true for Eid Ul Fitr with a true understanding of both, Ramadan and Eid Ul Fitr.

Remember, your Eid campaign isn’t just about marketing; it’s about celebrating a beautiful tapestry of faith, family, and festivity. Let’s season it with authenticity, and watch it unfold like a heartfelt dua.

• Mistake: We sprinkled generic Eid greetings like confetti. But Eid isn’t just about dates and desserts; it’s about sacrifice, gratitude, and family.
• Solution: Authenticity is our secret spice. Understand Eid traditions – the Qurbani (sacrifice), communal prayers, and feasting. Avoid stereotypes; instead, embrace the spirit of giving and community. Collaborate with Muslim creators – they’ll add the right flavors.

Read: Crafting an Impactful Eid ul Adha Marketing Campaign: A Guide for Brands Targeting Muslim Audiences

2. Product Offerings: The Undercooked Kebabs

Spicing Up Our Offerings: A Recipe for Success

In the flavorful world of product offerings, we’ve all tasted the blandness of monotony. Our mistake? Serving up the same old dishes – predictable, forgettable, and lacking that zing. But fear not! 

The Solution: Diversify Your Product Offerings

1. Limited-Edition Delight Examples

Eid Mubarak Macarons: Picture delicate Eid Mubarak macarons in vibrant colors – each one whispering festive greetings. These little treats are not just desserts; they’re joy-filled moments.

Halal and Tayyab Crisps: Crispy, bold, and Halal-certified! Imagine chips with flavors inspired by global cuisines – from tangy tandoori to aromatic za’atar. Make casual Eid snacking an adventure to accommodate those who are less inclined to traditional Eid snacks.

Discounts with Heart: Yes, discounts! But let’s frame them as gifts. “Share the Eid spirit – 20% off for your loved ones!” It’s not just about saving money; it’s about sharing blessings.

Unwrap Joy: To enhance your Eid campaign, create thoughtful Eid-themed packaging. Instead of overwhelming designs, subtly incorporate crescent moons, henna-inspired motifs, and personalized heartfelt messages. This way, whether unboxed by a young student in New York or an elder in Lahore, your packaging will evoke joy and resonate with both traditional and modern sensibilities.

3. The London Eid Festival Magic

Replicate the Buzz: Remember the London Eid Festival? The vibrant stalls, the laughter, the aroma of samosas – let’s capture that energy. Virtual or in-store, let your creativity go wild and create the ultimate Eid wonderland for your customers.

Interactive Experiences: Virtual tastings, live cooking demos, or DIY decorating kits – let customers be part of the festival. Engage their senses and create lasting memories.

Remember, our Eid campaign isn’t just about products; it’s about creating moments that linger on taste buds and in hearts. Let’s season it with love and watch it sizzle!

• Mistake: Your product lineup was as bland as unsalted rice. No special editions, no Eid-themed packaging.
• Solution: Spice up our offerings! Launch limited-edition Halal-certified goodies – think “Eid Mubarak Macarons” or “Halal and Tayyab Crisps.” Discounts? Yes, please! Frame them as gifts – sharing is caring. Remember the London Eid Festival? Let’s replicate that buzz.

3. Digital Campaigns: The Stale Samosas

From Flat to Fabulous: Elevating Our Eid Social Media Game

Your social media presence during Eid resembled a tray of stale samosas – unappetizing, lacking spice, and gathering dust. Engagement? Minimal. Storytelling? Nonexistent. But fear not! We’re about to change all of that with creativity, authenticity, and heart.

The Solution: Ignite the Platforms

Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok: These platforms are your magic wands. Fire them up! Post vibrant visuals, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and heartfelt messages. Show the hustle in the kitchen, the joy of family reunions, and the sparkle in kids’ eyes.

Hashtags: #EidVibes and #HalalFeast – sprinkle them like confetti. Hashtags are your secret sauce. They connect you to the global Eid party. When Muslims search for #EidInspo, be there, serving up inspiration.

Embrace the Flock: Muslims flock to social media during Eid – it’s your digital Eid market. Let’s serve them content that resonates. Eid fashion, home decor, recipes – it’s all on the menu.

Storytelling Time: Share heartwarming tales. Remember Grandma’s secret biryani recipe? Or that time the whole neighborhood pitched in for a surprise Eid gift? Stir emotions; let nostalgia simmer.

Authenticity Garnish: Sprinkle authenticity generously. Real stories, real people. Auntie Fatima’s henna-stained hands, Uncle Ahmed’s contagious laughter – they’re our stars. No stock photos; just genuine moments.

Remember, our social media isn’t just a megaphone; it’s a cozy corner where hearts connect. Let’s inflate that balloon, tie it with a ribbon of authenticity, and watch it soar!

• Mistake: Your social media game was flatter than a deflated balloon. No engagement, no storytelling.
• Solution: Fire up Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok! Use hashtags like #EidVibes and #HalalFeast. Muslims flock to social media during Eid – let’s serve them content. 

4. Inclusivity: The Burnt Biryani

From Tunnel Vision to Visionary and Diverse

Your previous approach to Eid overlooked the rich tapestry of diverse Muslim communities. You served a burnt biryani – lacking nuance, depth, and cultural variety. But fear not! We’re about to create a feast that celebrates unity in diversity.

The Solution: A Global Eid Palette

Indonesian Ketupat: Imagine woven rice cakes, steamed in coconut leaves. They symbolize unity and gratitude. Let’s showcase them – a taste of Indonesia for our global audience.

Somali Anjero: These spongy, pancake-like delights are a staple during Eid. Their tangy flavor and versatility make them a must-try. Let’s introduce our community to Somali culinary artistry.

Visual Feast: Your social media and packaging will be a gallery of colors, patterns, and stories. From Moroccan henna to Syrian Kibbeh – let’s celebrate the beauty of diversity.

Spotlight on Communities: Feature real families celebrating Eid – from Sao Paolo to Seoul. Their smiles, their traditions – they’re your stars. Show communities from different backgrounds sharing meals, laughter, and love. It’s not just about food; it’s about connection.

• Mistake: You overlooked diverse Muslim communities. Eid isn’t a monolith; it’s a mosaic of cultures.
• Solution: Let’s create an inclusive spread. Highlight different Eid traditions – from Indonesian ketupat to Somali anjero. Celebrate unity in diversity.Team Spirit: The Messy Kitchen

• Solution: Let’s create an inclusive spread. Highlight different Eid traditions – from Indonesian ketupat to Somali anjero. Celebrate unity in diversity. 

5. Team Spirit: The Messy Kitchen

Too Many (Solo) Chefs Spoil the Halwa

Your team resembled solo chefs – each stirring their pot but missing out on the magic of collaboration. No fusion of flavors, no culinary breakthroughs. But fear not! We’re about to turn our kitchen into a bustling bazaar of ideas.

The Solution: Stir the Pot!

Empower Ownership: Let team members own their dishes. The designer crafts the plating, the writer sprinkles storytelling, and the data wizard adds the secret spice of insights.

Innovation Buffet: Encourage experimentation. Your kitchen isn’t a fixed menu; it’s a buffet. Let’s serve up new techniques, fresh ingredients, and unexpected pairings.

Cross-Functional Dance: Imagine your designers salsa-ing with data, your writers waltzing with developers. Cross-functional collaboration isn’t just a buzzword; it’s your flavor enhancer.

• Mistake: Your team worked like solo chefs – no collaboration, no innovation.
• Solution: Stir the pot! Encourage experimentation. Let team members own their dishes. Empower creativity. Cross-functional collaboration? Yes, please! Your designers, writers, and data wizards need to dance together – like a synchronized biryani-making flash mob.

Bonus Ideas for Celebrating Diversity During Eid

Virtual Cultural Exchange: Organize virtual events where people from different backgrounds share their unique Eid traditions. Whether it’s a live cooking demonstration, storytelling session, or music performance, these exchanges foster understanding and appreciation.

Eid Recipe Swap: Encourage families to exchange traditional Eid recipes. An Italian family might share their lemon ricotta cake recipe with a Mexican family, who reciprocate with Dulce De Leche pastry pockets recipe. It’s a delightful way to taste the world’s flavors.

Eid Art Exhibition: Invite artists from diverse backgrounds to create Eid-themed art. Paintings, calligraphy, or digital illustrations – each piece reflects a different cultural lens. Display these artworks online or in a physical gallery.

Multilingual Greetings: Create Eid greeting cards or social media posts that feature “Eid Mubarak” in various languages. Arabic, Urdu, Turkish, Swahili, Malay, and more – let’s celebrate linguistic diversity.

Eid Storybook: Collaborate with writers and illustrators to create a children’s storybook that highlights Eid celebrations across cultures. Each story introduces young readers to different traditions and values.

Conclusion: From Failures to Feasts

Your next Eid campaign won’t be a soggy samosa. It’ll be a flavor explosion – saffron-infused, rose-scented, and community-approved. Work with the most prominent and most experienced team of Muslim advertising experts at MAN. Let’s cook up success, one authentic ingredient at a time together. Bismillah!

The post Why Your Last Eid Campaign Flopped: 5 Ways to Make the Next One Spectacular appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

In the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, brands need to understand how different AI systems perceive and evaluate them. This is particularly crucial for businesses targeting niche markets like Muslim consumers, where cultural sensitivity and alignment with values play significant roles. Here’s a comprehensive look at how different AIs might assess your brand and why this matters.

Understanding AI Perception of Brands

AI systems analyze brands using various data sources and algorithms, providing insights that can influence consumer perceptions. A recent article from The Drum highlights how AI models, like those from Google, Meta, and other tech giants, use vast datasets to form opinions about brands. These models consider factors like online sentiment, engagement metrics, and even visual content analysis to gauge brand reputation and consumer affinity​.

Key Factors Influencing AI Assessments

1. Sentiment Analysis: AI tools analyze the tone of social media posts, reviews, and other online content to determine public sentiment about a brand. Positive sentiments can enhance a brand’s reputation, while negative feedback can have the opposite effect. For businesses targeting Muslim consumers, ensuring that your brand is positively received in discussions about halal practices, ethical sourcing, and community involvement is essential. In one of our recent reports we found that, AI-driven advertising tailored to the values and preferences of Muslim consumers has shown significant improvement in engagement and conversion rates​.
2. Engagement Metrics: How often and in what manner consumers interact with your brand online is another critical factor. High engagement rates, especially those that reflect cultural sensitivity and relevance, can positively impact AI assessments. Our data indicates that targeted ads for Muslim consumers can lead to a 25% higher engagement rate compared to general market ads​.
3. Visual Content: AI’s ability to analyze visual content, such as logos, advertisements, and social media images, helps in understanding brand aesthetics and their alignment with cultural expectations. For Muslim consumers, imagery that respects cultural norms and portrays positive community values can significantly enhance brand perception. The Halal Times notes that incorporating culturally appropriate visuals in marketing strategies has led to a 30% increase in brand favorability among Muslim audiences​.

Why AI Perception Matters

For brands targeting Muslim consumers, AI-driven insights can offer several advantages:

• Cultural Relevance: AI can help identify how well your brand’s messaging aligns with Muslim values. This includes adherence to halal standards, representation in advertisements, and engagement with community issues​. According to ISA Halal, businesses that integrate AI to enhance their halal certification processes see a notable improvement in consumer trust and market share .
• Market Positioning: Understanding how AI perceives your brand compared to competitors can provide strategic insights into market positioning. Brands that effectively align their messaging with cultural and religious values can gain a competitive edge​.
• Customer Loyalty: Positive AI assessments based on sentiment and engagement can translate into higher customer loyalty and trust, crucial for long-term success in the Muslim market​.

Practical Steps to Improve AI Perception

1. Enhance Online Presence: Regularly monitor and optimize your brand’s online presence to ensure positive sentiment and high engagement. Engage with consumers on social media, addressing concerns and promoting positive discussions about your brand.
2. Culturally Sensitive Marketing: Tailor your marketing campaigns to reflect the values and traditions of Muslim consumers. Highlight your commitment to halal practices and ethical standards​.
3. Visual Content Optimization: Use culturally appropriate visuals that resonate with Muslim consumers. This can include using modest and respectful imagery and incorporating Islamic art and calligraphy where appropriate .

Conclusion

In an era where AI plays a pivotal role in shaping brand perceptions, understanding how these systems evaluate your brand is crucial. For businesses targeting Muslim consumers, leveraging AI insights to ensure cultural relevance, positive sentiment, and strong engagement can lead to enhanced market positioning and customer loyalty. By aligning your brand’s values with those of the Muslim community, you can not only improve AI perception but also build a robust and loyal customer base.

If you want to optimize your brand’s perception among Muslim consumers and leverage AI insights effectively, reach out to us, at Muslim Ad Network. We specialize in culturally sensitive advertising and can help tailor your campaigns to resonate with the Muslim market.

Contact Muslim Ad Network today to start enhancing your brand’s impact and reach within this vital demographic.

References

1. AI-Driven Advertising for Muslims
2. Transforming Your Halal Business with AI
3. How AI is Redefining Marketing for Halal Businesses and Muslim Entrepreneurs

The post What Do Different AIs Think of Your Brand? Insights for Businesses Targeting Muslim Consumers appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

The explosive growth that the Halal industry is experiencing is definitely something worthy of celebration. Continual success in Islamically-aligned products and services means that Muslims, irrespective of their location or ethnic background, will be able to live more authentically and without compromise. Socio-political contexts have influenced this growth in many significant ways; this is especially evident when it comes to Islamic finance and Islamic homeschooling.

According to Statista, the global Muslim market size is said to be at $2.8 trillion by 2025, while in 2021, it was at $2 trillion — a 40% increase in 4 years. Every Muslim entrepreneur must carefully think about their strategy and how they will uphold relevance in an increasingly competitive environment.

If you’re a Muslim CEO, how will you create a customer base that will continue to find value in your offering? How will you reach your target audience?

You’ll eventually be able to answer these questions, but not before you learn about niche marketing.

What is Niche Marketing?

Niche marketing is a targeted marketing strategy that focuses on a specific segment of the market. Unlike broader marketing approaches, niche marketing zeroes in on a particular group of people who share distinct characteristics, needs, or preferences. While this approach is more tasking in the sense that it may require a thorough evaluation of the existing Muslim market and the creation of highly-focused solutions, the ROI is notably greater as well.

Relevance for Muslim Businesses

For Muslim entrepreneurs and companies, niche marketing is particularly powerful. By no measure is the Muslim consumer base monolithic. Situated across the globe, influenced by different cultures and subcultures, there are countless niches that comprise the overall Muslim community. Niche marketing allows businesses to connect more authentically with Muslim consumers, addressing their specific needs and values. Here are some benefits for Muslim brands:

1. Enhanced Brand Loyalty: By catering to the specific needs of Muslim consumers, businesses can create strong emotional bonds, cultivating loyalty and repeat business.
2. Higher Profit Margins: Niche products or services can often command premium prices due to their specialized nature.
3. Effective Marketing Spend: Resources are used more efficiently by targeting only the most relevant audience.
4. Competitive Advantage: Differentiating the business in a niche market creates a unique proposition that competitors can’t easily match.
5. Expertise and Authority: Specializing in a niche can establish the business as an authority and pioneer in that segment, attracting more customers.

Example from the Community: Waqting

An excellent example of niche marketing is Waqting. Waqting develops watches that remind users of prayer times (based on location), find the qibla, and more. While there are several brands that sell watches with an Islamic aesthetic — whether through the use of Arabic numerals, or otherwise — Waqting merged spirituality, practicality, and aesthetic in a remarkable way.

How Waqting Exemplifies Niche Marketing:

1. Specific Audience: Targets Muslims who seek to integrate Islamic values into their time management.
2. Tailored Products: Provides products that help users organize their schedule around prayer times and Islamic practices.
3. Focused Marketing: Uses messaging that emphasizes the importance of balancing worldly tasks with spiritual obligations, resonating deeply with their target audience.
4. Reduced Competition: Faces less competition as it caters to a very specific need within the Muslim community.
5. Strong Customer Loyalty: Builds trust and loyalty by addressing the unique time management challenges faced by Muslims, providing practical solutions that enhance their daily lives.

Example from the Community: Hydrothobe

Hydrothobe stands out as another example of niche marketing within the Muslim realm. As the name suggests, they sell thobes (traditional Arab garments for men), but with a unique offering: water and stain resistance. Perhaps the founders initially wanted to sell straightforward thobes but realized the sheer competition within this industry. Consequently, their niche became Muslim men who are willing to pay a relatively higher price for a thobe that will always keep them clean and dry.

How Hydrothobe Exemplifies Niche Marketing:

1. Specific Audience: Targets Muslims who require modest, waterproof, and stain-resistant clothing.
2. Tailored Products: Offers products that meet the needs for both modesty and practical daily use, ensuring garments stay clean and presentable.
3. Focused Marketing: Uses marketing messages that highlight the practical benefits and religious compatibility of their products.
4. Reduced Competition: Faces less competition as it offers a solution that competitors have never provided.
5. Strong Customer Loyalty: As a pioneer in water-resistant thobes, the customer base that they acquire will be advocates for the brand, and loyal customers (as long as they uphold quality). 

Conclusion

Marketing is already a challenge for most businesses, and greatly so for Muslim-centric ones. In light of the exponential growth within the Halal industry, every Muslim entrepreneur or CEO should begin implementing niche marketing in their strategy. This approach allows them to remain relevant and successful, providing focused and authentic value to their specific audience. By employing niche marketing, Muslim businesses can connect more deeply with their target market, nurturing loyalty, increasing profitability, and establishing themselves as authorities within their niches.

Ready to transform your Muslim business with niche marketing? Contact Muslim Ad Network today to discover how we can help you connect authentically with your target audience and achieve unparalleled success in the Halal industry. Let’s grow together and make a lasting impact! Reach out now!

The post How Can Niche Marketing Transform Muslim Businesses? appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

In our previous discussion on the potential of Generative AI (Gen AI) in Muslim marketing and advertising, we explored its capabilities in personalizing content and enhancing consumer engagement. As we dive deeper, this second part will address the practical applications, ethical considerations, and future outlook for Gen AI in targeting Muslim consumers.

Personalization at Scale

Gen AI continues to impress with its ability to deliver hyper-personalized content on a large scale. By analyzing extensive datasets, it can generate tailored messages that resonate with the diverse and intricate cultural nuances within the Muslim community. This is particularly significant for brands aiming to connect deeply with their audience. For instance, AI-driven platforms can create customized Ramadan campaigns that reflect local traditions and dialects, ensuring a more personalized and impactful connection with consumers​ (McKinsey & Company)​​ (McKinsey & Company)​.

Efficiency and Innovation

Beyond personalization, Gen AI enhances efficiency and fosters innovation in marketing strategies. Brands can rapidly produce various content iterations and design concepts, allowing for swift testing and refinement. This capability is crucial for staying ahead in competitive markets. A case study from McKinsey highlighted how an Asian beverage company leveraged Gen AI to streamline its market entry process, generating insightful consumer data and product concepts efficiently​ (McKinsey & Company)​​ (McKinsey & Company)​.

Navigating Ethical Challenges

While the benefits of Gen AI are clear, ethical challenges remain a critical concern. Issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the risk of generating inaccurate information (AI “hallucinations”) need careful management. For Muslim brands, maintaining authenticity and respecting religious sensibilities is paramount. Implementing rigorous oversight and human-in-the-loop systems can help mitigate these risks and ensure ethical AI use​ (McKinsey & Company)​​ (McKinsey & Company)​.

Growing Consumer Acceptance

The adoption of AI-driven marketing is gaining traction among consumers. According to a recent survey, 64% of Brits expressed favorable views towards Gen AI in marketing, indicating a positive trend that could extend to Muslim consumers as well​ (McKinsey & Company)​. This acceptance suggests that with thoughtful implementation, Gen AI can enhance customer experiences without compromising cultural values.

Optimizing the Customer Journey

Gen AI’s potential to optimize the entire customer journey is transformative. From automated lead generation and personalized recommendations to real-time customer support, Gen AI can significantly enhance user experiences. For brands targeting Muslim consumers, this means creating a seamless, culturally aligned experience that fosters strong customer loyalty and engagement​ (McKinsey & Company)​​ (McKinsey & Company)​.

Future Directions

Generative AI presents an exciting opportunity for Muslim brands and those targeting Muslim consumers. By leveraging its capabilities in personalization, efficiency, and customer journey optimization, brands can achieve greater engagement and loyalty. However, ethical considerations must be at the forefront to maintain trust and authenticity.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that Gen AI will continue to shape the landscape of marketing and advertising. For Muslim brands, the key lies in harnessing this technology thoughtfully and ethically.

If you’re a Muslim brand or a brand targeting Muslim consumers and want to explore how Gen AI can revolutionize your marketing strategy, contact Muslim Ad Network. Our expertise can help you navigate the complexities of Gen AI, ensuring your campaigns are innovative and respectful of cultural nuances.

Stay ahead in the digital age by embracing the transformative power of Generative AI.

The post Generative AI for Muslim Marketing and Advertising: Part 2 appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in how young Muslims, particularly those in Gen Z, conduct online searches. Instead of relying on traditional search engines like Google, many are turning to social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram for information and discovery. This trend is part of a broader movement among younger generations but holds specific relevance for Muslim youth navigating their unique cultural and religious contexts.

The Rise of Social Media for Search

A study by Forbes Advisor highlights that a significant number of young consumers now prefer social media platforms over search engines for discovering products and services. Specifically, TikTok and Instagram are leading the charge, with 33% of Gen Z preferring these platforms for searches related to fashion, beauty, food, and lifestyle trends. This shift is not just about convenience; it’s about the type of content and community engagement that social media offers, which traditional search engines struggle to match​​.

Why Social Media?

1. Visual and Engaging Content: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram provide visually engaging content that resonates more with Gen Z. For instance, short videos and stories can quickly capture attention and convey information more dynamically than text-based search results.

2. Influencer Trust: Many young Muslims trust influencers who share similar values and lifestyles. Influencers often provide authentic reviews and recommendations, making their advice more relatable and trustworthy than anonymous Google search results.

3. Community and Interaction: Social media allows for community engagement and interaction. Muslim Gen Z can follow, comment, and engage with content creators and other users who share their interests and values, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Specific Searches by Muslim Gen Z

According to the study, Gen Z uses social media primarily for:

• Fashion and Beauty Trends: Young Muslims often look for modest fashion tips and halal beauty products, which are abundantly discussed and showcased by influencers on platforms like Instagram.
• Food and Recipes: TikTok has become a hub for discovering halal recipes and food trends, making it a go-to source for culinary inspiration.
• DIY and Lifestyle: Craft and DIY projects, often aligned with Islamic teachings of creativity and sustainability, are also popular search topics on these platforms.

Conversely, they still rely on Google for more substantial needs such as:

• Professional Services: For finding places to go or professional services, Google remains the preferred tool due to its comprehensive and reliable nature.
• Big Purchases: When it comes to making significant purchases, the detailed reviews and comparison features available on Google are unmatched.

The Role of AI in Shaping Search Trends

As technology evolves, so do search habits. The integration of AI into search engines, like Google’s implementation of ChatGPT-like responses, aims to enhance search experiences by providing conversational and context-aware results. However, social media platforms are also incorporating AI, such as TikTok’s AI chatbot and Meta’s AI assistant, to keep users engaged and informed​​.

Further Insights

We emphasize that marketing to Muslim Gen Z requires an understanding of their digital behaviors and cultural values. In our article, we highlight the importance of authenticity, social responsibility, and inclusive content that resonates with this demographic. Brands should leverage short, engaging, and visually appealing content while maintaining a presence on platforms where Muslim Gen Z is most active​​.

Marketing Implications

For businesses and marketers aiming to reach Muslim Gen Z, understanding these trends is crucial. Tailoring content to be visually appealing and leveraging influencer partnerships can significantly boost engagement. Additionally, integrating social media insights into broader marketing strategies can help in creating more targeted and effective campaigns.

If you’re looking to reach Muslim Gen Z effectively, Muslim Ad Network can help you to understand the unique cultural and religious contexts and connect with your audience more authentically. Explore Muslim Ad Network to find out how you can enhance your marketing efforts and engage with Muslim Gen Z on the platforms they prefer.

The shift towards social media for search among Muslim Gen Z reflects broader trends of digital engagement and the quest for relatable, community-driven content. By understanding and adapting to these preferences, businesses can better connect with this dynamic and influential demographic. The future of search for Muslim Gen Z may be less about traditional algorithms and more about the dynamic, personalized, and social experiences offered by these platforms.

For more details on the study and its findings, you can refer to the Forbes Advisor report and related insights on Marketing Dive.

The post Why Gen Z Muslims Are Turning to Social Media Over Google for Searches appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

Who is Generation Alpha?

Gen Alpha encompasses those born from 2010 to 2024, so the oldest members of Gen Alpha are already 11 years old at the time of writing this article.

In a 2008 report, consulting firm McCrindle introduced the term “Generation Alpha.” The firm recently estimated that this generation will be the largest generation in history by 2025, with a population of over two billion.

Despite being the youngest generation, they have far-reaching brand influence and purchasing power. They shape the social media landscape, are popular culture influencers, and emerging consumers. They will be entering adulthood, the workforce, and household formation by the end of the 2020s.

Millennials are raising children. Generation Z is entering the labor force. And the inexorable wheel of time has created a new generation for Muslim advertisers to keep an eye on: Generation Alpha. Muslim brands must consider how today’s children differ from their older Gen Z siblings.

According to McCrindle when generational definitions span a specific age range, meaningful comparisons across generations are possible. As a result, today’s generations are each 15 years old.

Gen Alpha Characteristics

According to the US Census Bureau, Generation Alpha will be more diverse than the rest of the US population. These stats were quoted in Insider Intelligence’s report. In another of their reports, they state that Gen Alpha already makes up 13% of the US population, with over 73% of US children under 12 using the internet.

Generation Alpha, the offspring of Generation Y, is made up in part of Generation Z’s younger siblings. Over 2.5 million babies are born every week around the world. They will number nearly 2 billion when they are all born (2025), making them the world’s largest generation in history.

With that in mind, note that Muslim households have one of the biggest baby booms in the United States and the United Kingdom currently. So your revenue as an organization that serves Muslims in the future may increase drastically if you market to Muslim Gen Alpha starting today!

The McCrindle report, “Understanding Generation Alpha” explains that Gen Alpha:

1. is the most prosperous generation,
2. the most technologically sophisticated generation,
3. will live longer lives than any previous generation,
4. will remain in college for a more extended period of time,
5. begin earning money years later, and
6. are likely to remain at home until their late twenties.

Technology and the Gen Z creators who dominate their feeds have a big influence on Gen Alpha. COVID-19 and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and a polarized world will have a significant impact on who they are.

Ashley Fell, the co-author of Generation Alpha, says that:

1. this young generation will be heavily impacted by the economic, social, educational, and psychological effects of COVID-19,
2. they will place a higher value on family,
3. look up to “everyday superheroes,
4. accept working from home as a common practice,
5. will be more creative, and
6. resilient due to the challenges they experienced.

Due to their increased awareness of the world around them, Generation Alpha may also be growing faster, but they have also been isolated from important face-to-face social interaction. Their reliance on the technology that has replaced it has grown as a result.

Ethics of Marketing and Advertising to Kids

Since this younger audience primarily consumes online content unsupervised, the opportunity to market goods and services to Gen Alpha comes with a great deal of responsibility. Before launching such campaigns, Muslim advertisers must thoroughly research their options from an ethical and legal standpoint.

In order to safely enrich young audiences’ experiences without putting them in danger, Muslim businesses must uphold strict ethical standards and Islamic advertising principles.

The Association of National Advertisers explains:

“Our society has long recognized the need to protect children and responsible marketing is an essential component. In addition to industry self-regulatory guidelines and practices, federal and state laws offer a complex set of protections for children and their parents and caretakers.”

Here are some great resources to help your halal marketing and advertising to stay on the right path. We do not believe that this list is exhaustive. Besides, a lot also depends on where your business is located. Make sure you perform thorough due diligence.

1. The Federal Trade Commission’s recent Disclosures 101 guidelines
2. The Federal Trade Commission’s Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act
3. The Better Business Bureau’s Children’s Advertising Review Unit,
4. The Association of National Advertisers´guidelines for ethical marketing practices pages 11 and 27 

Halal Advertising for Kids

You can make a significant and positive difference in your halal advertising practices for kids by (among other things):

1. adhering to national and international policies, rules, and regulations
2. integrating Islamic advertising principles into your ad campaigns for kids
3. obtaining consent from parents and ensuring that terms and conditions are clear;
4. examining and rejecting material that might be risky or addictive for children;
5. rejecting unachievable stereotypes that lead to anxiety;
6. obtaining advanced parental permission for data collection and storage;
7. protecting information in your possession and not disclosing it to third parties without parental consent.

US President, Joe Biden requested that legislators “ban targeted advertising on children” in his State of the Union address. 

“It’s time to pass bipartisan legislation to stop Big Tech from collecting personal data on our kids and teenagers online. Ban targeted advertising on children, and impose stricter limits on the personal data that companies collect on all of us.”

While a complete ban appears unlikely, stricter privacy policies for children’s data are entirely possible.

How Your Halal Brand Can Catch And Keep Gen Alpha Attention

Gen Alpha was born with a smartphone and gaming and these two are just part of the norm like water and electricity are to many of us. Attaching a halal gaming element to your Muslim brand is one way of attracting their attention and staying top of mind.

Interactivity is important in areas other than gaming. As true digital natives, Gen Alpha can immediately identify paid promotional content. Using polls or promotions is one way to keep them from scrolling past.

Gen Z influencers are very effective in drawing the attention of this young generation and impacting their attitudes. So why not work with these content creators? Try to find smaller influencers that can work within your budget. If you would like to know how to do so, read: “How to Find the Right Influencers for Your Halal Brand” and “Marketing to Muslim Consumers With Meta-influencers”.

The fact that Gen Alpha is the most diverse and global-oriented generation gives your Muslim brand a fantastic opportunity to advertise to them globally. Gen Alpha is happy to shop globally.

The technology that Gen Alpha has grown up with is responsive and no longer expects them to consume passively. Although according to its CEO, TikTok has restrictive content for those below the age of thirteen, it is a very popular social media platform for Gen Alpha because of the fact that content consumers are also content creators on it. 

The Institute for Family Studies’ lead researcher, when asked at what age kids should be allowed to be on TikTok answered that no child under 13 should be on any social media, including TikTok. Although responsibility for this mostly falls on parents, as a Muslim brand following Islamic ethics, you share in the responsibility too to make sure you emphasize that your content on social media is not for very young people.

Children, by nature, identify with brands later in life if they are exposed to them at a young age by their parents. Gen Alpha is no different as its preferences will also be shaped by the choices made for them by millennial parents.

Ashley Fell, the co-author of Generation Alpha explains:

“Generation Alpha are growing up as super-informed and constantly connected consumers. This means that their attitudes and consumer behavior are different to generations past and are constantly evolving.” 

Going back to their millennial parents’ influence, Gen Alpha has a deep understanding of the lifecycle of products around them as they are exposed to conversations about food ingredients and participate in sorting compost from recycling. As a result, as consumers, Gen Alpha will seek out this information. 

This means that your brand has got to get its story right. It has to have a purpose and stand for solutions for social challenges that matter to this generation. To get inspiration on this matter please read:

• “Purpose Will Make or Break Your Halal Brand”
• “How to Use Creatives to Bring Your Halal Brand Purpose to Life”
• “Why Your Halal Business Should Care About Digital Advertising Carbon Footprint”

Conclusion

They may be highly opinionated but Generation Alpha is also labeled the most digitally savvy and socially aware. For that reason, as a brand, your halal brand needs to be on top of its game and ready to make contact with this crucial audience. Be smart about how to connect with them. You can’t drag your feet in communicating with this influential demographic, or you risk losing out on lifelong brand loyalty.

Be authentic in your communication, immersive in your adverts, and personalized in your campaigns. If you look towards the future now, you can thrive beyond this transition between consumer generations.

The post Is Your Halal Advertising Ready for Gen Alpha? appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

A summary of all the stats from the 2022 edition of the State of the Global Islamic Economy Report

This 2022 State of the Global Islamic Economy Report covers a period from the height of the pandemic in 2020 until the third quarter of 2021 and expectations beyond that. The report is produced by DinarStandard with the support of Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET).

Muslims spent  US$2 trillion in 2021 across industries. This reflects an 8.9% year-on-year growth from 2020, with Islamic finance growing to US$3.6 trillion in 2021, up 7.8%, from US$ 3.4 trillion in 2020.

Muslim spending in 2022 is forecasted to grow by 9.1%, excluding the Islamic finance sector. Muslim spend is forecasted to reach US$2.8 trillion by 2025 at a 4-year Cumulative Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.5%.

Muslim spend on food increased by 6.9% in 2021, from US$1.19 trillion to US$1.27 trillion, and is expected to grow by 7.0% in 2022 and reach US$1.67 trillion in 2025 at a 4-year CAGR of 7.1%.

There has been an upswing in Islamic fintech, with 241 companies currently in the market. This sector is forecasted to rise from around US$49 billion in 2020 to US$128 billion by 2025 (based on estimated transaction volumes).

Muslim spend on tourism increased from US$58 billion to US$102 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow by 50.0% in 2022 to US$154 billion and reach US$189 billion in 2025 at a 4-year CAGR of 16.5%.

Muslim spend on fashion increased by 5.7% in 2021, from US$279 billion to US$295 billion, and is expected to grow by 6.0% in 2022 to US$313 billion and reach US$375 billion in 2025 at a 4-year CAGR of 6.1%.

Muslim spend on pharmaceuticals increased by 6.5% in 2021, from US$93.5 billion to US$100 billion, and is expected to grow by a further 6.7% in 2022 to US$106 billion and reach US$129 billion in 2025 at a 4-year CAGR of 6.7%.

Muslim spend on cosmetics increased by 6.8% in 2021, from US$65 billion to US$70 billion, and is expected to grow by a further 7.2% in 2022 to US$75 billion and reach US$93 billion in 2025 at a 4-year CAGR of 7.4%.

Muslim spend on media increased by 7.2% in 2021, from US$216 billion to US$231billion, and is expected to grow by a further 7.5% in 2022 to US$249 billion and reach US$308 billion in 2025 at a 4-year CAGR of 7.5%.

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