As longtime global CMO Keith Weed retires from the company, thoughts on what marketing's integral involvement in corporate mission and strategy can accomplish.

Troubled Kraft Heinz tapped AB InBev's former marketing chief, and marketing investments are paying off at PepsiCo, Unilever, among others.

Walmart is pouring millions into its customer data-driven ad platform. Albertsons Cos. is already reporting impressive results. And others are also in the game.

Harnessing consumer insights is today's largest competitive advantage, but it takes pivots in culture and talent, as well as technology.

Recent deals reflect drives to shift investment, focus to accessing new customers, expanding capabilities to enhance the customer experience, according to report.