Introduction
In March 2026, the global affiliate marketing industry saw a net increase of 444 active programs, bringing the total to 72,154. This represents a growth of 0.6% from the start of the month, according to Affilitizer Market Barometer data. The market currently tracks 49 active networks.
Top 10 Ranking
| Rank | Network | Programs (Month-End) | Change | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AWIN | 21,556 | +20 | ▲ |
| 2 | Impact | 8,036 | 0 | ▬ |
| 3 | Flexoffers | 6,658 | +1 | ▲ |
| 4 | dgmaxinteractive | 3,038 | +49 | ▲ |
| 5 | CJ | 2,914 | -27 | ▼ |
| 6 | Rakuten Linkshare | 2,814 | 0 | ▬ |
| 7 | AdCombo | 2,423 | 0 | ▬ |
| 8 | Daisycon | 2,415 | +43 | ▲ |
| 9 | Adtraction | 2,403 | +34 | ▲ |
| 10 | ADCELL | 2,383 | -4 | ▼ |
Growth Champions
TradeTracker recorded the highest absolute and percentage growth in March 2026, increasing from 1 to 375 programs. This represents a gain of 37,400%. According to Affilitizer Market Barometer data, dgmaxinteractive followed with 49 new programs (+1.6%), and Daisycon secured the third spot with an increase of 43 programs (+1.8%).
Decline and Closures
Paysale reported the most significant contraction, losing 70 programs, a decline of 6.4%. CJ saw a reduction of 27 programs (-0.9%). Belboon also experienced a notable loss, decreasing by 12 programs, which equates to a 5.2% drop in its portfolio.
Market Concentration (HHI)
The Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) for the affiliate market stood at 1,234 at the end of March 2026. This classifies the market as moderately concentrated. The index decreased by 12 points during the month, indicating a slight reduction in market concentration. The top five networks hold a combined market share of 58.5%.
Network Segments
| Segment | Networks | Total Programs | Avg. Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Large (≥1,000) | 18 | 66,155 | +0.1% |
| Medium (200–999) | 12 | 4,747 | +8.8% |
| Small (50–199) | 10 | 1,018 | -1.1% |
| Micro (<50) | 9 | 234 | +3.1% |
Medium-sized networks were the primary growth engine in March 2026, with an average increase of 8.8%. Large networks remained relatively stable with 0.1% growth, while the small segment contracted by 1.1%.
Stability Analysis
TradeTracker was the most volatile network in March 2026 with a Volatility Index of 151.4%, followed by Paysale at 2.2% and WeDare at 2%. Conversely, Rakuten Linkshare, ADCocktail, and Skynet (McAnism) maintained perfect stability with 0% fluctuation throughout the period.
Regional Distribution
Based on network headquarters, the Benelux+ region saw the sharpest growth in March 2026 at 15.1%, largely influenced by TradeTracker's activity. The DACH region remains the largest by program volume with 27,484 programs, showing 0% net change. North American networks follow with 15,267 programs. Eastern European networks saw a decline of 1%.
Market Summary
The affiliate market grew by 0.6% in March 2026, reaching a total of 72,154 programs. While major players like AWIN and Impact remained stable, significant gains in the medium-sized network segment led to a slight decrease in overall market concentration.
Affilitizer Editorial Team
This article was created with AI assistance and editorially reviewed.
