DMEXCO

"You can't control the market, but you can control your ex*****on."
A strong reminder from our conversation with flaconi CEO Bastian Siebers at DMEXCO.

While many companies focus on trends, competitors, and the latest AI hype, sustainable growth still comes down to fundamentals: excellent ex*****on, strong teams, and deep customer relationships.

AI may change the tools we use, but it won't replace the importance of understanding customers and delivering on promises.

💬 What do you think will be the biggest competitive advantage in commerce over the next 5 years: AI, customer loyalty, or something else?

Performance marketing is changing fast. 👀

Less data, more automation and more AI raise one big question: how can brands still make performance transparent, measurable and trusted?

For René Roth, Managing Director of our new NexXt Business Performance & Partner Marketing Lounge powered by Oliro GmbH​​, this is exactly the kind of conversation that belongs at .

Because the future of performance marketing will not be shaped by tools alone. It needs clear strategies, open debate and real people in the room. 🤝

Thanks for the great perspective, we can't wait to see you in Cologne! 🚀

An evening celebrating the people shaping our industry. ✨

This week, Berlin brought together some of the most influential voices in marketing, media and communications for the HORIZONT Awards 2026.

Congratulations to this year’s winners:
👏 Kim Notz, CEO of KNSK
👏 Christian Schmalzl, former Co-CEO of Ströer
👏 Christoph Werner, Chairman of the Management Board at dm-drogerie markt

Three leaders recognized not only for business success, but for their ability to drive transformation, provide direction and shape the future of our industry.

A big thank you as well to Eva-Maria Schmidt and Catrin Bialek for guiding the evening.