Angering audiences, intentionally or not, generated “cheap, easy, free attention” all year long, one marketer said—but it’s also “created a marketing industry that’s afraid.”
AI-driven bot networks are growing and weighing in on everything from Cracker Barrel to Tylenol, forcing marketers to parse real consumer insights from fake.
But brands like Guess, J.Crew, and Skechers are finding themselves caught in cycles of consumer backlash for the perceived use of the technology.
Brands like Neutrogena, Audible, Vera Bradley, and Doritos are tapping into stories from sincere to smutty to attract consumers.
With Cracker Barrel and Jaguar at the center of political firestorms, marketing experts say brands are taking extra care before making changes.
Water brand Rambler wanted a viral car-launch video, but had to pivot after the car veered off course.
The beverage brand’s strange humor and social fanbase has dozens of brand marketers vying to partner up, its SVP of marketing said.
Marketing Brew informs marketing pros of the latest on brand strategy, social media, and ad tech via our weekday newsletter, virtual events, marketing conferences, and digital guides.
