Affiliate networks are third-party platforms that connect brands (advertisers) with affiliates (publishers, influencers, content creators, and other partners) to facilitate performance-based marketing partnerships. These networks provide the infrastructure for tracking, reporting, and payment processing, enabling brands to run scalable affiliate programmes efficiently. The below will delve into the fundamentals of the core functions of global affiliate networks, who the main players are in the industry, their USP’s and how brands can choose the most suitable network to match their business goals.

Affiliate marketing has become an integral part of brands’ digital marketing mix, allowing them to connect with a wider audience while rewarding publishers for driving sales. But like any system built on trust, it isn’t immune to abuse. Affiliate fraud is a growing concern that undermines the integrity of the affiliate ecosystem, draining marketing spend if programmes are not monitored. Here, we’ll break down what affiliate fraud is and how it impacts brands.

Card-linked offer (CLO) publishers have risen to the forefront of some of the largest affiliate programmes in the industry. By blending seamless user journeys with measurable results, CLO publishers leverage transactional data to connect brands with their customers in a targeted way, while also offering a rewarding experience for the consumer.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday (BFCM) in 2024 once again set new records, confirming the resilience of both brands and consumers amid a complex economic landscape. This year, despite easing inflation and rising consumer confidence, financial caution remained a factor. Rising energy costs, services inflation, and mortgage renewals continued to influence purchasing decisions, prompting shoppers to be more selective. What were the key trends and strategies from BFCM 2024 - from creative approaches, affiliate marketing, on-site optimisation, and performance highlights?

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday approaching, preparing affiliates effectively is essential to maximise performance during peak season. By providing insights from last year’s performance, outlining effective planning strategies, and highlighting best practices for achieving success in Q4, we walk through the best approach for preparing for peak.

Over the past few years, we have started to see a change in the typical way that brands and the affiliate industry view influencer marketing. The whole landscape has started to shift, as the industry has continued to evolve and influencers have grown in popularity