Brands and creative agencies can claim a larger slice of the creative economy as adoption of virtual influencer content accelerates. Cheaper to run, with higher productivity rates and more monetisation options, virtual influencers provide an opportunity for brands to secure a greater return on their marketing investment. However, the biggest opportunity arises from marrying virtual influencers with AI assistants and chatbots to deliver round-the-clock engagement with fans. In this business strategy report, we evaluate the commercial opportunity of virtual influencers for brands and creative agencies and the impact they will have on human influencers, audiences, and the wider creator economy. This report includes the accompanying case study ‘The Clueless agency: Accelerating virtual influencer growth’.

Key data in this report: 

• Value opportunity presented by virtual influences
• Consumer sentiment about top virtual, and non-virtual influencers
• Analysis of how AI and chatbots will affect content creation
• Consumer attitudes towards AI and advertising
• Recommendations on crafting effective, audience-driven virtual influencers

All survey data is based on MIDiA Research Q3 2023 Consumer survey, fielded in the US, UK,  Australia, Canada, France, Thailand, Colombia, and Q1 2023 Consumer survey, fielded in US, UK,  Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Sweden, Japan, Mexico, India. Data includes breakdown by age and gender.

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Companies and brands mentioned in this report: Aitana Lopez, Amazon, Apple, Aww Inc, Caryn Majorie, Charli D’amelio, ChatGPT, Dall-E, FN Meka, Google, IKEA, Imma, Instagram, K/DA, Kwebbelkopp, Meta, Marks & Spencer, Lil Miquela, Microsoft, Mira, Mr Beast, Nike, Nobody Sausage, OpenAI, Pewdiepie, Puma, Samantha Tauber,  Snapchat, Sora, The Clueless, TikTok, VNCCII, YouTube