I am not heavily into politics.
But, like the rest of America, I couldn’t help watching the whole health care debate and vote this weekend.
At least casually, from the treadmill at my gym/tennis club.
And I overheard some interesting conversations among the members there.
Some of the dynamics I observed seem relevant to me as a more general lesson in good vs. bad branding…
Today is my birthday.
Rather than focus on the fact that I am another year older, and freaking out about the passage of time etc. – I’ve decided to focus on the brands of my youth- some of which I miss.
As a child growing up in the 70’s, I remember a lot of iconic brands- many of which are no longer with us.
Check out Retroland.com and search under the 70’s in case you miss some of them too.
I have distinct images of myself in front of the bathroom mirror singing into my hair brush or accepting my academy award (thanking my mother of course).
I probably also thanked product sponsors and gave them a shout out for for making me look so beautiful and glamorous.
Top on my list were:
“Gee Your Hair Smells Terrific” Shampoo (the best name ever)
Herbal Essences (who could forget that green bottle and distinct smell?)
Sending out some mad love to my BrandTwist readers.
Heading off for a little February break R&R.Be back soon!
Love,
Julie
Does social media matter? Check out this video.
Is this accurate or overstated? What’s your twist?
A while back a wrote a post Lather, Rinse, Repeat about how I often get my best ideas in the shower (I think it’s something about turning your brain off) that allows the ideas to flow.
But I lamented the fact that I couldn’t find a place to write them down (all wet and soggy) when the inspiration struck.
Well know thanks to a BrandTwist reader I just found out that one company, Aqua Notes, offers a solution to this.
Check out this KFC spot from Australia.
It was supposed to be a local spot playing off of the cricket rivalry between the West Indies and Australia.
But it’s gotten a lot of flack from viewer’s in the US who got wind of it over the Internet.
A white spectator finds himself in an all black crowd and smooths over what he calls an “awkward situation” with a bucket of fried chicken.
I am addicted to reality TV. Well not all of it.
In my case, the main source of my affliction (and my enjoyment) is NBC’s The Biggest Loser.
I know I am not alone. Millions of people are tuning in each week, making this one of the most popular shows on TV.
But it goes beyond entertainment for me.
I actually feel like I am accomplishing something, each week as the contestants face difficult challenges and transform their bodies.
I love this sign.
It’s in a strip mall right near where I go to Jenny Craig.
I believe brands should diversify.
But this one just seems confused.
Right when they’ve got my mouth watering for some delicious (and convenient) ribs….
Suddenly they turn around and insist they’ve got more.
Is this a case of brand stretch or brand schizophrenia?
That’s my point of view. What’s your twist?
Would this sign draw you in?
I am a brand enthusiast, passionate futurist and lateral thinker. I am currently working at Virgin Management helping to build the brand in the US by launching new Virgin businesses.*
Learn more » Email Julie »* Though I work at Virgin Management USA, everything here is my personal opinion and is not read or approved before it is posted. The views expressed on this blog are mine alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
