strategic / objectives
| March 2026
SO. IN THE KNOW
Read on to learn more about what’s new in the digital world!
Social Media News
PLATFORM UPDATES, TRENDS & MORE!
Meta Announces
New API Updates
Meta has updated its Application Programming Interface (API), the system it uses to report and share content performance metrics with external platforms and software tools, to make “views” the primary performance metric. Learn more about this important update in our latest blog post.
Threads Introduces
Cross-Posting
Threads now lets users share posts directly to Instagram Stories without leaving the app, simplifying cross-posting between platforms. The update aims to boost reach by making it faster to distribute Threads content across the two Meta platforms.
IG Redesign Puts Reels at the Centre
Instagram is testing a redesigned interface that places Reels in the centre of its bottom control panel. The update signals Instagram’s continued shift toward short-form video as its leading discovery format.
#Trending on TikTok
Punch captured the internet’s hearts after footage from a zoo in Japan showed him leaning on his only friend, a stuffed IKEA orangutan, while being picked on by the other monkeys in his enclosure. The emotional clip quickly went viral, turning Punch and his plush companion into global symbols of comfort and resilience. IKEA swiftly embraced the moment, launching ads around the world featuring Punch’s now sold-out toy companion and publicly rallying behind him. Adding a heartfelt local touch, IKEA Japan donated 20 orangutan toys to Punch, ensuring he has plenty of new cuddly companions.
IKEA responded organically to the moment, leading with empathy while naturally evolving the story into a broader brand initiative. This unique example of reactive marketing reinforced its core values, resonated deeply with social audiences, and helped build emotional loyalty, with increased sales as a bonus.
Marketing News
TACTICS, UPDATES, INSPIRATION & MORE!
Axe Launches
New Spray Tech
Axe is tackling its “overspraying” reputation with a campaign centred on it’s redesigned “subtle” spray technology that delivers a lighter, yet longer-lasting application. The campaign, “The History of Overdoing It”, urges users to fix the smell-based dating faux pas with a new less-is-more mindset.
Folgers Remixes
It's Classic Jingle
Folgers remixes its classic “Best Part of Wakin’ Up” jingle with popular wake-up songs spanning decades and genres. This cross-generational campaign leans into nostalgia while, simultaneously, modernizing the brand’s image to reach younger coffee-drinkers.
McDonald's Creates
OVO "Afters" Meal
Drake teams up with McDonald’s Canada to launch the limited-time OVO “Afters Meal,” marketed as the rapper’s late-night meal combo. While supplies last, fans can enjoy Drake’s OVO-branded meal, featuring classic menu items, collectible packaging, and a blue “Nite Sprite”.
Campaign Spotlight: Dove x Reddit
Dove took unfiltered Reddit reviews, the glowing, the lukewarm and even the brutally honest, and turned them into a bold New York campaign for its Intensive Repair hair mask, putting real consumer voices front and centre. The eye-catching “r/eal reviews” posters feel ripped straight from your feed and plastered across the city, sparking instant curiosity and conversation. The buzz doesn’t stop there, with the campaign extending into a Flatiron Plaza pop-up, sampling activations, social content and a film brought to life using the very same candid reviews.
By tapping into a discussion platform like Reddit, Dove transforms authentic community feedback into media inventory. The “r/eal reviews” campaign embraces radical transparency, turning unfiltered commentary into the creative itself. In doing so, Dove projects total brand confidence, elevated by a clear willingness to stand behind real consumer opinions.
#WeMakeNews
CHECK OUT WHAT THE SO TEAM HAS BEEN UP TO!
The SO Newsletter
Has a New Home!
It’s official! SO In The Know is now published directly on the Strategic Objectives website. Find everything SO-related all in one place. This refresh creates a smoother viewing experience and makes sharing the newsletter even easier! Click below to explore past and present editions, all available anytime on our Newsroom page.
Kindle Heats Up Valentine's Day
Strategic Objectives and Amazon Canada spiced up Valentine’s Day with a “Heated Rivalry” inspired Kindle mailer. Decked out with goodies for pleasure and pampering, this box was an immediate hit for fans of the viral series. Take a look to see what was inside!
NEW SO Blog Post
Our latest blog post breaks down everything marketers need to know about Meta’s recent API update. From the rationale behind the shift to what it means for paid campaigns and the future of social and influencer reporting. Click the link below to learn more!
Shaking Hands
is SO Fun!
Curious to learn more about the faces behind Strategic Objectives? We put the SO team to the test, asking them to shake hands with the person who best matched each prompt… and let’s just say, the results didn’t disappoint.