Ad Stars has cemented its position as biggest global advertising awards festival based in Asia, with 20,645 entries to this year’s awards from 60 countries, up slightly from last year’s 20,342. The highest number of entries were recorded again in Outdoor, Print, Film and Design.

Because virtually all of Ad Stars categories are free to enter, its awards programme offers a level playing field for agencies and production companies. Only the Integrated and Innovation categories have an entry fee attached to them of US$90 per entry.

All entries are now in the running to win two US$10,000 cash prizes, which Ad Stars presents every year to its Grand Prix of the Year winners.

Countries with the biggest increases year-on-year for entries to Ad Stars include Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan, France, Portugal, the Czech Republic and Nigeria, reflecting the diversity of entries that Ad Stars attracts. Entries also grew by over 50% from the following countries: India (up 71% year-on-year), Singapore (62%), Philippines (125%), Vietnam (254%), Australia (53%), Hungary (68%), Croatia (332%), UAE (377%) and Qatar (514%).

“Ad Stars is very happy to have attracted over 20,000 entries again this year. It shows creative professionals around the world acknowledge the need for a global awards platform that is accessible to everyone – even those agencies or production companies who have limited funds to spend on entering award shows. We want creators all over the world, whether they’re students or start-ups or emerging agencies in emerging markets, to have a forum where they can share their work, and inspire the world,” stated Hwan Jin Choi, chairman of the Ad Stars executive committee.

Remote judging has begun, conducted by top industry professionals throughout the world. Lydia Lee, assistant manager of Ad Stars, noted, “We have already begun analysing this year’s entries and some interesting trends are emerging. We have noticed a spike in campaigns that incorporate Artificial Intelligence and Mixed or Virtual Reality, particularly in North Asia. On the other hand, we’re seeing a growing number of campaigns that celebrate family values, or are ‘Newtro’ campaigns combining contemporary values with retro nostalgia. Ad Stars strives to be a platform that supports and promotes creative ideas that contribute to mankind, so we were happy to see that many of this year’s entries are fighting for environmental causes.”

In August, five executive judges and 30 final judges will meet in Busan, South Korea to vote on Grand Prix, Gold, Silver and Bronze winners. Winners will be revealed at the 12^th Ad Stars festival, from August 22 to 24 2019.

Early bird discounts are available to attend the 12^th Ad Stars festival. Purchase tickets before July 10 to receive a 15% discount, or before July 31 to receive a 10% discount. Online registrations close on August 9 2019.

Find all information about Ad Stars here.