• Access Adtech
  • Posts
  • Issue #29: Top stories from Amazon, Meta and Elon Musk's X

Issue #29: Top stories from Amazon, Meta and Elon Musk's X

The fastest way for digital marketing pros to look smart in the weekly stand-up

August 11, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes

☕ Hello there adtech adventurers

After 2 weeks away it’s time to throw back an espresso and take in the top stories.

🗞️ Top Stories

  1. Amazon pulls out of Google Shopping ads 

    The retailer’s sudden retreat from Shopping auctions across 20 markets could ease CPCs and open up impression share for other brands. Search Engine Land 

  2. Meta developing an AI powered search product

    Sources say Meta is building a search function, with aligned ad opportunities, as part of a broader push into intent driven discovery. WebProNews

  3. UK watchdog clears Omnicom’s acquisition of Interpublic

    The CMA has greenlit the $13.25 billion mega merger that will create the world’s largest advertising group and is expected to close in H2 this year. Reuters 

  4. Vogue facing backlash over AI-generated Guess ad
    A print campaign featuring an artificial model has reignited debate over synthetic talent’s impact on diversity and opportunity in the creative sector. TechCrunch

  5. LADbible launches first TV channel 

    The social publisher debuts a free, ad supported channel on Samsung TV Plus in the UK - bringing series like Snack Wars and Minutes With to the big screen. Prolific North

  6. YouTube becomes top TV choice for UK children 

    Ofcom’s latest report finds one in five children now turn on YouTube first when they switch on the TV, clarifying YouTube’s shift to the big screen. The Guardian 

  7. OpenX accuses Google of ad auction bias 

    Following on from the US high court ruling that Google operates a monopoly, OpenX has filed a lawsuit citing anti-competitive adtech practices. AdWeek

  8. WPP slashes staff bonuses by 60% as client losses bite

    The UK ad giant warned of weaker client spend and cut share dividends by 50% and bonuses by 60%, highlighting the touch test for the new CEO. PR Week

  9. X to inject ads into Grok chatbot answers

    Elon Musk says X will develop a plan for paid promotions directly in Grok responses in order to raise the money required to power the AI tool. TechCrunch

Got feedback, suggestions or interested in partnerships? Hit reply and let us know.

See you next time,

Access Adtech