I’m up in New York talking to magazine editors about some of the great new candy products that were launched at last month’s ALL CANDY EXPO. That means that I’m in a hotel room without access to TIVO and that means I have to watch live TV.
Ugh. Commercials.
Only tonight I was pretty excited to see this commercial. I love it when companies that have nothing to do with candy use candy to advertise their products.
It’s a real testament to how beloved candy is in our culture. It’s one of the first foods we eat purely for enjoyment and one of the foods we continue to eat for our whole lives (although our tastes in candy usually progress).
Given the special place candy occupies in our lives, it’s no wonder so many companies outside the industry use candy to sell products. This commercial actually features a song about candy AND imagery designed to replicate candy manufacturing – a double whammy!
As I was typing this post, I saw another advertisement featuring candy … it involved a piñata and 10 pieces of candy. Does anyone know what it was advertising?
What advertisements have you seen that use candy to sell a non-candy product?
11:56 am on June 25th, 2009
I think that commercial is for a calling plan for Verizon Wireless. The candy represents everone you can call on the plan. Don’t eat cousin Marsha!!!
6:39 pm on June 25th, 2009
Thanks for sharing!! This is cool! (Although just think if they had used Oompa Lompas!) Oh Monica you are right – those are great because there is just so MUCH candy!! (and Sprinkles!)
5:44 pm on June 26th, 2009
Monica and Denise – You’re right. You guys know your commercials!
1:54 pm on June 29th, 2009
Susan, I’m curious: How was the reception by the editors? I’ve pitched so many candy-themed stories in the past and haven’t gotten many successful responses. Just wondering if candy has a negative perception.
2:18 pm on June 29th, 2009
Patti – It was great. We visit them every June so we have years worth of relationships built up with these magazines. Also we’re showcasing new candy products more so than specific story ideas. I think that appeals to them because it doesn’t take up a lot of ink and they can figure out small ways to include a candy item here and there without hiring freelancers or investing a lot of dollars. Here’s an example of the kind of repsonse that comes out of these personal visits and connections – http://www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/holidays/halloween/fun-facts-candy-corn-10000001539218/.