Peter Adams

Analysts agree that independents, which have already started picking up more business, will receive a boon, while overall dealmaking may spike.

The deal, with an estimated value over $13 billion, has industry-rattling implications — but may not address client demands for simplicity.

The better-for-you brand’s new commercial, part of a more aggressive ad-spending strategy, shows uncanny AI images nodding to Coke iconography.

A transition would not be smooth or quick, experts cautioned, since so much ad activity and so many ad products are closely tied to the browser.

“Undercover Cups” shows reps going into McDonald’s, Burger King and Wendy’s — all Coke partners — to replace soft drink orders with Pepsi.

The retailer is running two distinct holiday campaigns for the first time to appeal to consumers who view the season as too transactional.

Gen Z and millennials are showing noticeably higher advertising receptivity, but marketers shouldn’t be taking a victory lap yet, the researcher cautioned.