New figures released in a joint report issued by the Internet Advertising Bureau (IAB) and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC), reveal that online advertising revenues increased by 16 percent, year-over-year, in quarter one (Q1). This, according to IAB and PwC data, matches the growth rate seen in 2014.

The IAB sponsors the IAB Internet Advertising Revenue Report. The report is independently conducted by the New Media Group of PwC. According to the IAB, report results are considered the most accurate measurement of interactive advertising revenues; data is compiled directly from information received by companies selling advertising on the Internet. Data includes online advertising revenues from web sites, commercial online services, free e-mail providers, as well as information involving other companies selling online advertising.

The $13.3 billion, notes MarketingCharts, represents a new Q1 standard, noting that this was not unexpected given growth seen in the prior, so-called “historic,” peak the previous year. Other interesting data point to the 20-quarter double-digit online ad revenue growth going back to Q1 2010. IAB and PwC note that Q1 2015’s $13.3 billion is, in fact, a record-breaking first quarter high.

“Digital screens are an indisputable part of consumers’ lives,” said Randall Rothenberg, President and CEO, IAB. “In turn, interactive is taking on an even more vital role in today’s marketing mix—and these historic figures confirm its growing importance,” he added.

“Brand marketers need to be where the consumers are—and as of today, that is unquestionably on digital,” added Sherrill Mane, Senior Vice President, Research Analytics and Measurement, IAB. “This double-digit growth speaks to the incredible popularity of interactive screens,” she noted.

“The rise in year-over-year figures is the direct result of brand and media agencies’ increasing commitment to digital marketing,” said David Silverman, a partner at PwC US. “It is clear that interactive has become an imperative in reaching key demographics with tailored messaging and creative.”

In part, the IAB evaluates and recommends standards and practices, fielding key research on interactive advertising; PwC US assists organizations and individuals to create the value they seek, including “delivering quality in assurance, tax and advisory services.”

Sources:

US Online Ad Revenues Up 16% in Q1; June 12, 2015; by MarketingCharts staff; Source: IAB / PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).

Thursday, June 11, 2015 U.S. Internet Ad Revenues Reach Historic $13.3 Billion in Q1 2015, Representing 16% Increase Over Q1 2014 Landmark Numbers, According to IAB Internet Advertising Revenue Report.