MARKETINGPROFS — Amid double-digit declines in traditional ad spending, the emerging category of social media sponsorships grew 13.9% to $46.0 million in 2009 and is forecast to climb 23.6% to $56.8 million in 2010, driven by higher demand among advertisers to reach social media's target audiences, according to a study by PQ Media. Social media sponsorship, a digital word-of-mouth marketing segment, refers to material compensation (including cash, products, or points) provided to a social media content creator by brands in return for promoting or reviewing their products...

MEDIAPOST — According to new research from PQ Media, spending on word-of-mouth marketing rose 14.2% to $1.54 billion in 2008, despite the worst economic recession in 70 years. However, WoM spending is on pace to grow another 10.2% this year, placing it among the fastest growing advertising and marketing segments. By comparison, the U.S. economy, as well as the advertising and marketing services sectors are all expected to decline in 2009 for the first time since the Great Depression of the 1930's. PQ Media defines WoM marketing as an alternative marketing strategy which encourages consumers to dialogue about products and services through various online and offline tactics, often facilitated by brand ambassadors...

360 DIGITAL INFLUENCE — At WOMMA, we have worked with the great research firm -- PQMedia -- to release a comprehensive report on the financial state of the growing social media and word of mouth marketing field. This report has just been pre-released to members as part of the value of membership. There’s a lot in here. As a member, you would receive the report automatically. If you are not a member yet want the report, reach out to WOMMA and they can hook you up (not sure the fee)...

MEDIAWEEK — Now that’s a lot of chatter. Spending behind word-of-mouth marketing hit $1.54 billion last year, according to PQ Media. While most traditional channels saw spending slow, spending behind w-o-m tactics including buzz, influencer, community and viral marketing grew 14.2 percent in 2008. Food and drink brands led the way accounting for 30 percent of all w-o-m spending. PQ Media is forecasting the w-o-m spending will increase another 10.2 percent this year despite the recession...