The marketing and advertising industry is buzzing with innovative campaigns and strategic leadership changes, showcasing the dynamic nature of the field. From engaging sports promotions to strategic personnel advancements, agencies are pushing creative boundaries and enhancing organizational structures.
Arts & Letters Creative Co. has launched an exciting new campaign for ESPN, aimed at promoting the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Named “The ESPN Chirpline,” this campaign introduces a 60-second spot featuring a hotline where NHL fans can engage in discussions about trades, playoff matchups, and various hockey-related topics. The video is being broadcast on ESPN’s programming and social media platforms, aiming to foster fan interaction and excitement during the playoffs.
In a significant leadership development, Arts & Letters has promoted Sara Kastner to the position of head of talent. Kastner, who joined the agency in 2019 as director of creative operations, has been pivotal in her previous role as head of staff. In her new capacity, she will oversee recruiting, resourcing, and employee experience, marking a strategic move to enhance the agency’s human resources and creative output.
Addison Clark, another agency making waves, has been involved in several projects, including creating a logo design and “coming soon” website for Sodie, a new soda shop set to open in the Richmond area. Additionally, the agency has collaborated with Friends of the Hollywood Cemetery to design its 2024 annual report. In a move to strengthen its creative team, Addison Clark has hired Madison Whitley, a graphic designer, and Nick Lau, a social media coordinator, both graduates of James Madison University.
In the world of sports marketing, Owen Design Co. has crafted a multi-channel campaign to support Virginia-based tennis company Har-Tru’s sponsorship of the 53rd Credit One Charleston Open in South Carolina. The campaign features stadium motion graphics, courtside digital displays, court banners, digital advertising, and an “activation space” designed to engage attendees through immersive activities.
Fable Advertising has teamed up with Spang to produce a captivating spot for the Virginia Lottery. Inspired by the film “Knives Out,” the 30-second advert was directed by Spang’s Jordan Rodericks and filmed by Steve Yedlin, the cinematographer behind the movie. This collaboration highlights the creative synergy between agencies in producing high-quality, cinematic advertising content.
Spang has also collaborated with Familiar Creatures on an intriguing campaign for Bubba Burgers titled “Unbelievable.” This spot features a yeti and an alien engaging in a humorous debate over whether Bubba Burgers is “the best burger ever,” showcasing the brand’s playful approach to advertising.
In the digital realm, Evergib has launched a new website for Richmond-based nonprofit The Span Center. This WordPress site is part of a comprehensive rebranding effort in partnership with Campfire & Co. Evergib handled the brand strategy, naming, storytelling, and web development, while Campfire & Co. focused on logo and visual identity, print/collateral design, and website design.
Kristen Nye has entered the communications arena with the launch of Nye Strategies, a Richmond-based firm. The company offers a range of services, including crisis communications, community engagement, media training, public policy guidance, and media and public relations. Nye’s experience as a former Richmond City Council member and her work with organizations such as the Lexington Institute and the National Academy of Sciences position her firm as a formidable presence in the field.
Xponent21 has completed a significant web development project for Papa John’s franchise PJ United, utilizing a WordPress platform to streamline operations and enhance engagement. The firm also rolled out a new website for Solar Tint, supporting the brand’s integration following its acquisition of Ohio-based Suntrol Tinting and Graphics.
These developments underscore the vibrant and ever-evolving nature of the marketing and advertising industry as agencies and professionals continue to innovate and adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
Note: This article is inspired by content from https://richmondbizsense.com/2025/05/13/the-pitch-advertising-and-marketing-news-for-5-13-25/. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.