At our marketing agency, we’re passionate about advertising that leaves a lasting impression. From heart-warming Christmas tales to unforgettable nostalgia, our team has a soft spot for iconic marketing campaigns that have captured our hearts over the years. Join us as we share our all-time favourite ads!
First up, Daisy, our Junior Designer: John Lewis Christmas Ads
Every year, as the holiday season approaches, Daisy gets excited for the release of the John Lewis Christmas ad! These heart-warming ads have become a beloved tradition for her and many others, as they have managed to create such an emotional connection through storytelling, making each holiday season even more special.
We asked her what her top 3 ads were:
The Bear and the Hare (2013)
Song: Somewhere Only We Know by Lily Allen
The Long Wait (2011)
Song: Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want by Slow Moving Millie
The Journey (2012)
Song: The Power of Love by Gabrielle Aplin
Louise Proddow, Founder of Tweak: Madonna – Pepsi TV Commercial 1989
Louise can’t help but reminisce about the grandeur of the big iconic campaigns that used to dominate the advertising landscape. She fondly remembers classic ads like Old Spice and Milk Tray, which were more about creating a brand persona than immediate sales. However, she appreciates that after more than three decades, Madonna’s 1989 Pepsi ad celebrating the release of ‘Like a Prayer’ made a return during the 2023 MTV VMAs.
“artists are here to disturb the peace.” – Madonna
This moment in marketing reminds us that iconic campaigns can make a comeback, reinforcing the enduring power of storytelling in marketing.
Chloe, our Account Director: Oatly’s Refreshing Approach
Chloe, has been intrigued by Oatly’s remarkable journey in the world of marketing. Oatly’s approach to marketing has left a lasting impression on her, and she finds it to be a refreshing departure from the norm. Oatly’s marketing strategy is consistent and recognisable.
Their unconventional approach stands as a testament to the power of authenticity, engagement, and breaking the marketing mould. The brand’s success lies in its ability to seize opportunities and align with growing eco-consciousness and veganism trends. Oatly has effectively blended humour, sustainability, and a unique brand voice to disrupt the traditional dairy industry, as well as marketing.
Source: fieldmarketing.com
Source: 9-to-5-nutrition.com
Daniela, our Digital Marketing Manager: “Should’ve Gone to Specsavers”
The marketing campaign that stands out most to Daniela, is ‘Should’ve gone to Specsavers’. This witty slogan has become synonymous with the brand, illustrating the power of a simple and memorable message. Specsavers consistently uses humour to connect with their audience and reinforce their core message: the importance of clear vision.
Here are some of her favourites:
Source: decisionmarketing.co.uk
Jeremy, our Senior Designer: Costa Coffee’s Maple Hazel
Jeremy has a keen eye for creativity, and Costa Coffee’s strategy to subvert the Pumpkin Spice Latte trend, initiated by Starbucks, and promote their Maple Hazel range caught his attention! Starbucks introduced the Pumpkin Spice Latte in 2003 and achieved staggering sales, reaching 424 million units sold by 2019. However, Costa Coffee has stepped into the arena, ready to compete with their unique approach.
In a bold move, Costa Coffee not only challenged Starbucks’ domination in the seasonal coffee market but also offered a solution to those tired of the ubiquitous PSL. They launched a “Pumpkin Flavour Blocker” Chrome extension, allowing users to replace the Pumpkin Spice Latte searches with the Costa Coffee Maple Hazel range in their internet browsers.
This innovative and direct marketing strategy showcases Costa Coffee’s determination to make their mark, making it a campaign worth admiring.
You can download the chrome extension here.
Take a look at some of Jeremy’s favourite social posts for this campaign:
Jess, our Mid-Weight Designer: Maybelline CGI
Jess’ favourite marketing campaign is Maybelline’s recent CGI mascara campaign. In a rapidly changing beauty marketing landscape, Maybelline has embraced CGI technology to craft an unforgettable campaign.
Maybelline’s mascara videos launched in July and quickly went viral. Interestingly, similar videos promoting Kylie Cosmetics at ASOS were released in August, reigniting the interest in Maybelline’s campaign. The brand’s effective use of CGI technology left viewers initially believing in real-life installations, showcasing the power of innovation and surreal art-inspired visuals.
Maybelline’s inventive approach, demonstrates how beauty brands can leverage technology for compelling content in the digital era.
Take a look:
