The organisers of the Cannes Lions 56th International Advertising Festival have announced that 22,652 entries from 86 countries will be competing for the coveted Lions at this year’s event, a 19.9% drop versus a record breaking year in 2008.
“Although there are naturally fewer entries across the categories, the Lions remain the ultimate global awards to win with more than 22,600 entries from 86 countries competing, and we look forward to the 11 Juries arriving in Cannes to honour the finest creative work the world’s communications industry has to offer. We are particularly happy about the launch of the PR Lions, which have been so well supported by our colleagues in the PR industry. With 431 entries from 239 companies in 48 countries participating, it’s a great welcome to Cannes for this new category,” said Philip Thomas, Festival CEO.
The 56th International Advertising Festival will be held 21-27 June 2009 in Cannes, France.
The International Advertising Festival – Cannes Lions – is the largest gathering of worldwide advertising professionals and advertisers as well as the most prestigious annual advertising awards. More than 10,000 registered delegates from 94 countries and around 12,000 total visitors from the advertising and allied industries attend this event to celebrate the best of creativity across all media mix, discuss industry issues and network with one another.
Over 28,000 ads from all over the world are showcased and judged at the Festival. Winning companies receive the highly coveted Lion trophy, honouring the most creative TV/cinema, print, outdoor, interactive, radio, design, sales promotion, integrated advertising, as well as the best media and direct marketing solutions. A unique programme of high-profile seminars, workshops and keynote speakers are also presented by some of the biggest names in the industry.