Healthcare was the largest ad sector in Q1 2020

Rob Clapp

An overview of the largest global advertising categories during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Q1 2020.

Automotive brands accounted for nearly one-tenth (8.78%) of global advertising spend in Q1 2020, according to Nielsen Ad Intel. This is significant as the sector is among the worst-hit as a result of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, with a steep sales decline visible in multiple markets including China, Australia and India.

Nielsen Ad Intel found automotive to be the fourth largest category in Q1 2020. Healthcare places first, accounting for 10.56% of all advertising investment during the period. Beyond the greater emphasison personal hygiene that the outbreak has fostered,...

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