"The New Affiliate Playbook: Scaling with CSS & CUGs"! This session explores how the affiliate space is changing and how modern brands can effectively optimize and grow their programs. Bringing together industry experts from Partnerize, Acceleration Partners, Genie Shopping, and Visualoft, the discussion maps out strategic approaches required to navigate the shift toward controlled, intent-driven ecosystems. The panel honors the need for a sophisticated marketing infrastructure by detailing how brands can leverage Comparison Shopping Services (CSS) and closed user groups (CUGs) to maximize visibility, capture high-intent audiences, and effectively drive long-term lifetime value.