Spikes Asia receives a record 4,984 entries

The entries, which are 152 more than the previous year's tally, are also substantially different in profile.

“The categories showing the strongest growth are Digital, which has seen entries rise by 68 per cent, and Mobile, where entries have grown by 48 per cent," said Terry Savage, chairman, Lions Festivals who added that the Spikes Asia entries are a good indication of regional industry trends.

"On a country level, it’s fantastic that Sri Lanka has almost doubled its entries, whilst Malaysia, Pakistan and Chinese Taipei have also seen substantial increases," he continued. 

The following number of entries have been received in each category: Branded Content & Entertainment (187), Creative Effectiveness (31), Design (332), Digital (461), Direct (329), Film (397), Film Craft (258), Healthcare (173), Innovation (63), Integrated (59), Media (422), Mobile (186), Outdoor (605), PR (247), Print (379), Print & Poster Craft (306), Promo & Activation (434), Radio (115).

Ahead of the festival, the Innovation jury, led by Emad Tahtouh, director of applied technology at Finch, have completed a preliminary round of judging to arrive at a shortlist of ten entries, each of which will be presented live to the jury at the festival. Of the entries shortlisted, Australia is leading the pack in number, followed by Japan and the Philippines. Live judging takes place on Wednesday 24 September and is open to all delegates, who will be able to witness first-hand the region’s latest innovations and technologies.

In total, 90 jury members will meet in Singapore to judge entries from across Asia-Pacific.

Alongside the awards, the four-day festival, filled with non-stop content, networking and learning, is set to recharge and inspire delegates, whilst particular focus is put on nurturing talent through the Young Spikes competitions and academies. The awards ceremony, where the 2014 winners are revealed, will bring Spikes Asia 2014 to a close, with celebrations continuing into the night at the official after party.

Spikes Asia takes place from 23 to 26 September at Suntec, Singapore. There is still time to register for a pass and further details, along with full schedules and information, can be found at www.spikes.asia.