BECAUSE THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT

Kantsun Karhut is a world first: an advertising contest that brings the scene down to earth.

Instead of industry insiders, we put the judging power where it belongs: in the hands of those the ads are truly meant to reach – the consumers. Real experience experts, most of whom, let’s face it, don’t give a hoot about ads.

The competition will reward ads that genuinely move people.

This shindig is also about simply bringing the fun back into the business. Less ‘squeezing the racket,’ as we Finns say. More camaraderie, lighthearted mischief, and good times.

PRIZES

Grand Prix

The winning agency receives a festival pass to Cannes Lions (value €4,295), sponsored by SOK and UKKO.fi. (Travel, accommodation and rosé not included.) The winning client receives media visibility provided by our media partners.

Petit Prix

The winning agency receives Karhu, sponsored by Karhu, and a whole load of pizza, sponsored by Kotipizza – delivered to their doorstep.

Ursa Minor

Each category winner receives a one-of-a-kind trophy.

HOW TO ENTER

Eligible works

Ads first published between 1.10.2024-1.10.2025.

Fill the FORM and submit work

Additional required details: work title, time of release, media channel, billing details.

Submission format

mp3, mp4, jpeg

Deadline

17.10.2025 at 18:00.

Fees

1 entry 50 €
5 entries 200 €

Note

Submissions must not include case-video elements like campaign results, media coverage, unrelated voice-overs or music, or added effects. Ads must be entered in the same form as they were experienced by the consumer.

Works for Kantsu’s Karhut are submitted and judged as individual pieces, just like when you’re lounging on your couch at home. So, works cannot be submitted as a series.

MEET THE JURY

The prestigious jury consists of representatives of eight consumer archetypes (as often identified in strategic decks).

Carpenter | Ylöjärvi
Pragmatic small-town resident

“I like ads that have space, air, and pace – why not a bit of warmth and atmosphere too.”

Miikka, 50

Social Services Professional | Helsinki
Experience-driven young adult

“I like ads that have something I can relate to.”

Lidia, 27

CEO | Helsinki
Affluent urban consumer

“I like ads that feature art and use subtle advertising.”

Alan, 41

Sales Coordinator | Karkkila
Selective everyday shopper

“I like ads with a catchy melody that leave room for clever interpretation, spark interest in the product or service, and make it appealing.”

Sanna, 45

Customer Advisor | Helsinki
Value-based buyer

“I like ads that dare to use humor and a little playful jab at competitors – as long as it stays within good taste.”

Senni, 23

Doorman | Helsinki
Family-centered decision maker

“I like ads that feature food, good music, and fashion.”

Abshir, 33

Student | Espoo
Budget-conscious student

“I like ads that use humor and are really memorable.”

Timi, 21

Retiree | Helsinki
Experience-driven senior

“I like ads that feature children because they feel so genuine.”

Tua, 78

GALA

13.11.2025 18:00 Kannel Krouvi

A gala just like the competition itself: unpretentious, fun and full of surprises. Hosting the gala is people’s favorite, Sami Kuronen.

Getting there: Take a local train to Kannelmäki Station; it’s just a short walk to the venue. P-trains run every 10 minutes from Helsinki Central Station. An AB ticket is enough.

Dress code: client presentation core.

TICKETS

Only 100 gala tickets are available.

Distributed fairly among participating agencies.

If any remain, they’ll be released for general sale.

Q&A

Kantsun Karhut aims to bring joy back to the industry. Less gripping the bat, as we say in Finland. More team spirit, good-natured mischief and moments of playful fun.
Kannelmäki is one of the City of Helsinki’s urban renewal projects, where many positive changes will take place in the coming years. We want to support the local scene and take the Punavuori-Kallio axis’s small circle beyond its usual boundaries to enjoy community life together in this amazing environment.
Not yet this year, although OMD Ranking is already fully supporting the competition. Instead of points, the winners will receive S Group gift cards, thanks to SOK.
Enter it into the “Wow” category – just as the client experienced it. Style is free, as long as it’s authentic.
Anyone you like. Or hello@kantsunkarhut.com