Americans are the most ‘advertised to’ society in the history of the world. We’ve seen it all. So, for a product to create a buzz, the marketing had better be crazy good. Strategically sound, creatively brilliant and highly shareable.
Then there are campaigns that redefine awful. Simply put, it’s BADvertising.
Some of these images are real. Some are parodies. But you probably can’t tell the difference. So, join me in celebrating some of the worst marketing, award-winners for:
Over-Promising & Under-Delivering. What does Postmates deliver? Were any women asked for their opinion?
Truth In Branding. This could be funny and memorable. Instead, Terrible’s lives up to its name.
Lost Credibility. GEICO is killing it with their gecko. So, Liberty Mutual counters with a pathetic mascot and creepy dude. I feel sorry for the emu.
What Were They Thinking? Who thought this was a good idea? Can I pair it with a hot dog?
Is This Really A Thing? Would you wrap your lips around a Pepsi Pickle?
Here’s my take. Who approved this crap? Before an ad is produced, dozens of people shape the strategy, tweak the messaging and analyze the design. Teams of ad execs, creative directors, product managers, brand leaders and clients signed off on this ‘BADvertising’. Together, they just tossed their ad budget into a woodchipper.
They should all be ashamed.
