Creative Boom’s April 2026 edition of 'Booms & Shakes' highlights major leadership changes, new hires, and agency expansions across the global creative industry. The roundup covers transitions at Verve, Residence, DEPT, and GUT Europe, alongside new appointments at Aer Studios, Born Social, and Gung Ho. It also introduces D&AD’s new global Ambassador Programme connecting creative leaders worldwide.
Tom May’s Creative Boom article explores Beano Brain’s 2025 Coolest Brands report, which reveals how Generation Alpha engages with brands. The piece highlights YouTube’s dominance, Nike and Adidas’s contrasting strategies, and the rise of experiential and authentic branding from companies like KitKat, Domino’s, and Jellycat. It underscores how Gen Alpha values identity, creativity, and genuine experiences over hype.
Creative Boom profiles Nottingham-based illustrator Emmy Lupin, known for her maximalist, colourful, and pattern-rich style. The article explores her journey from advertising to full-time illustration, her use of Procreate and traditional tools, and her collaborations with brands like Adidas, TikTok, Quercus, and Nasty Gal. It also highlights her personal projects, including a pregnancy diary and her retail shop in Nottingham.
Written by Tom May for Creative Boom, this article explores the potential U.S. ban on TikTok and its implications for creators and the wider digital landscape. It outlines the legal and political background, the likely technical and economic consequences, and how creators might adapt by diversifying to other platforms. The piece also considers the global ripple effects of a U.S. ban on TikTok usage and culture.
