Online marketing agency Rakuten has recorded massive growth in the past year, tripling revenue, picking up nine new staff and adding a spate of high profile retail clients including Coles, Lorna Jane, SurfStitch, Vinomofo and Big W.
The affiliate arm of the business has seen 47% same store growth, largely driven by desktop and smartphone spending. The company’s display sector, which includes retargeting, has seen the fastest growth, surging by almost 50% year-on-year.
Speaking to AdNews, Rakuten's managing director, Anthony Capano, said the results are evidence of a maturing market as Australian retailers steadily embrace the world of performance-based marketing.
“Our reputation is growing and the we've been able to drive campaign performance and also provide a high level of service. Technology is one thing, but adding service is very important to Australian retailers. 26 of our 34 staff are now customer facing," he said.
The company's newest offering, attribution, has grown globally by almost a third year-on-year. With a 95% retention rate, the demand for attribution technology has seen the company scoop new brands UGG Australia and Hilton Worldwide.
“Service is crucial, particularly to Australian retailers,” said Capano, who took the top job at Rakuten in 2013. “There has to be a human element in looking at insights and ensuring growth is consistent.”
“Attribution is the service we expect to boom over the next year. Marketers are demanding a single view of ad performance across all channels and as businesses turn to performance-based marketing, transparency is vital.”
He said with significant chunks of retailers' marketing budgets moving online, delivering ROI on digital marketing spend is more important than ever.
“We are proud of the growth we have experienced and we will continue to focus on driving strong campaign performance and a high level of service for our clients.”
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