February was a jam-packed month in the marketing world. From Google and Meta going head-to-head with AI shopping to an unexpected rise in Reddit marketing popularity, the team at Daffodil Marketing have compiled our highlights for the top marketing news this February so you don’t have to.
Google introduce AI tools to Google Shopping
Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) has begun rolling out to Google users over the last month. Although it is currently taking place in the US, there are plans to expand further.
UCP-powered checkout lets users purchase directly from AI mode as opposed to being directed to retail sites. Long term, they are looking to extend beyond retail to create a future where “all commercial experiences can be seamless and agentic.”
Google are also launching a Business Agent, a way for shoppers to chat with brands right on Search. It will be like a virtual sales associate that can answer product questions in a brand’s voice, enabling retailers to connect with consumers during critical shopping moments, helping drive sales.
The customer purchase journey is changing, with AI at the forefront and customers able to purchase without even clicking on your brand page, making it even more important to establish your brand voice and presence, so that it is picked up on by AI.
Meta tests shopping feature in response to Google
In a similar fashion, Meta Platforms has just started testing a new shopping feature inside its AI chatbot. Previously, it would have provided a text reply; now, scrollable rows of images with brand names, prices, and purchase links will come up.
Similar to Google, this search will affect how users purchase, based on what products or services it pulls up first, making it doubly important to optimise content for AI.
B2B marketing is shifting
Businesses are noticing that B2B professionals are just like you and me, scrolling on TikTok late before bed and enjoying silly content. B2B once highlighted thought leaders, brands and practical insights, but now the shift is gravitating towards conversation over campaigns.
Employee-generated content, memes, customer-centric and personalised content are all at the forefront of B2B marketing. As a new generation steps into managerial roles, the way we advertise must shift accordingly.
Longer form content is making a comeback
This may not be the first time you’ve heard of this, but long-form content continues to dominate in February 2026. Creators are learning that traffic is only useful if it leads to action. Long-form content doesn’t just attract readers but also guides them towards making decisions.
In 2026, anyone can make content – especially with AI. It’s now more important to distinguish between high and low-quality content. Long-form content allows for greater depth, strengthens brand positioning, drives higher conversions and more.
Reddit becomes relevant to marketers
What was once seen as a place for hobbyists or niche forums has become a prime place for marketing. Google indexes many Reddit threads on page one for relevant keywords, extending visibility long after the original post.
The trick is to write like a Redditor. Overt, salesy, and traditional adverts don’t work. Users often reject anything that feels like marketing inserted into a conversation. Campaigns that follow subreddit norms and respect community guidelines perform best and are rewarded with conversions. Build campaigns with authenticity and genuine discussion in mind.
Stay in the loop
Keep up with our news roundups once a month for bite-sized, relevant news to your business. From current trends to big news, stay ahead of your competition here.
Want to go a step further? We can help you get seen. Whether you’re due for a website refresh or want to make sure your content reflects your brand in a way your audience notices, chat with Daffodil Marketing today.
