Each week up until the conference we’ll be interviewing one of our conference sponsors, if you missed the a4uexpo newsletter where we Interviews Webgains, we’ve included it here for you to peruse.
1. What distinguishes Webgains from other networks in Europe? Why should other networks see you as a real competitor?
Webgains is the fastest-growing affiliate network worldwide opening offices in the UK, France, Sweden, Germany, Benelux, Denmark, Spain and USA. We will be opening an office in Italy in the next three months
As part of the ad pepper media group we have the backing, resource and existing infrastructure to invest in new markets, expand our reach and offer a CPM and lead generation solution to our merchants.
Our fanatical approach to customer service, combined with our industry- leading second-generation technology, flexibility and tools built around industry needs, sets us apart and makes us one of the strongest network options for merchants and affiliates. We recently interviewed Dennis Pietersen, affiliate manager for Bigpoint, a merchant on our platform who runs an affiliate programme across the US, France, Netherlands & Germany, he clearly sums up what we offer over the other networks – “If something is going wrong or something is needed to support the affiliates, Webgains lets me know straight away. I have had very different experiences with other networks and they have not been that good compared with Webgains. You would find that you write an email and you are still waiting for an answer one, two, or three weeks later. This dedicated approach to customer service is in stark contrast with other networks.”
We provide a more cost effective solution for merchants looking to extend their reach into European markets compared with other larger networks (almost half the price) and we don’t compromise on service levels either.
2. Choose three words that would best describe Webgains!
Friendly, Dynamic and Innovative.
3. It’s said in some quarters that markets across Europe are at different stages in terms of maturity and acceptance as a mainstream digital marketing channel. Would you agree with this statement? Why?
Yes this is correct. Simply put different countries adopt digital marketing channels at different rates. The overall size of each country’s economy has a lot to do with the speed at which different tools and strategies get introduced. There are also legal and cultural considerations, for example product data feeds have not taken off as a core affiliate tool in the smaller markets. Discount vouchers are still borderline legal in Denmark. Events such as the a4uExpo Europe will go along way to broadening the acceptance of new formats
4. In the UK we’ve seen an influx of Voucher Code and Cashback sites. Is this a trend you are seeing in other territories such as Germany, Netherlands and France?
Germany – Silk Steffan, Head of Affiliate- & Account Management
Discount voucher codes are already popular in Germany, but some merchants fear that they may damage their brand because some consumers perceive them negatively. However we offer good advice on how a discount voucher code campaign works best for a specific program and how it can work successfully and tie in with that particular brand’s vision. We can also suggest ways of bringing together affiliates with the right programs so that discount voucher code Affiliates can maximise their revenue.
Regarding cashback sites, we still see some reluctance by merchants due to concerns over control of their pricing policy. However due to our excellent partnership with our cashback affiliates, we can make sure that there is continued communication between merchant and affiliate which ensures that both parties are happy in terms of promotions, placements and most importantly conversion.
Netherlands – Leonie Jongerius, Director Webgains
In Holland discount voucher code and cashback sites are still in the early stage of adoption. Affiliates and merchants are showing interest and are beginning to understand the benefits of discount voucher code and cashback sites but it is still early days.
France – Tristan Seulliet, Head of Account Management
Discount voucher code sites are very important in our market and many of our top affiliates and merchants are actively involved. We see bigger players dominating the market and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for new comers to offer value and generate significant revenue. Our discount Voucher Management Tool will certainly be appreciated by merchants.
The same could be said for cash back sites as there are many available and also numerous new ones created on a regular basis.
5. What in your opinion will Affiliate Marketing be remembered for in 2009?
Affiliate marketing will be remembered as the ‘safe haven’ within the digital marketing mix. With budgets being squeezed and consumer and business spending falling, there has never been a better time to invest in affiliate marketing. In fact, within the affiliate marketing industry, confidence in our ability to grow in uncertain times remains high, given that this is such a low risk advertising model.
6. What about 2010?
In 2010 we will see a continued focus on cost efficiency and as merchants evolve and understand the processes that work best, the channel itself with become more efficient. Communication with affiliates lies at the heart of profitable relationships and therefore open and transparent Networks such as Webgains will continue to develop innovative ways to manage the flow of information better.
7. This is your third year supporting a4uexpo, as conference veterans, what tips would you give to new delegates for them to get the most from the show?
1) Prepare, prepare – the only way you can avoid time wasting is to have a game plan. Plan and prepare in advance and know what you will be doing.
2) More is less – The minute you walk into the exhibition, you’ll be offered brochures, goodie bags, giveaways etc. Some of what’s on offer, like official show catalogues, guides and newspapers can provide essential information on the show.
3) Comfort is King – Pack comfortable shoes and clothing to wear on the show floor. Make travel and hotel reservations early to maximize on discounted rates.
4) Maximise the Seminars – plan the seminars/workshops you want to attend. Split sessions with your colleagues to maximise data gathering and remember all presentations will be available after the seminar.
5) Networking – Look for networking opportunities. Network with industry leaders. At workshops introduce yourself to people around you – hand out/collect business cards. Our industry is very friendly, open and passionate, Webgains has written a guide on How to Schoomze to read click here.
8. Finally, why should we all visit your stand!?
We will have Webgains staff available from all countries, so you can converse in your own language. You will be able to find out more about out latest products and innovations including our Voucher Management Tool our Webgains iSense ad creator (which won an IAB UK & Econsultancy Innovation award), Page Peel, mobile tracking and cookieless tracking.
More significantly this year we are investing in thought leadership activities such as whitepapers, research and reports that promote the strength of affiliate marketing across Europe. As such we will be running a survey that looks at affiliate marketing across Europe supported by a leading trade association and Existem. Come find out more at stand 33.