What Marketing Trend Keeps Coming Back? Nostalgia!

No, you’re not imagining things– big brands really are letting their marketing from the 90’s and beyond re-surface. So, if you see something that gives you déjà vu, realize that the commercial or ad is likely made that way for effect. It’s on purpose and for good reason!

One marketing trend that never dies is nostalgia marketing, appealing to different generations by going back in time. There are so many ways to accomplish this, let’s discuss how some big names have been utilizing this strategy lately!

1. Smokey the Bear time travels through the decades of the past for his 80th anniversary!

This ad is not only playful, but it’s made to appeal to multiple generations, highlighting the 50’s, 70’s, and 80’s. By showing homage to several decades and giving a wide range of audiences a flashback to a time they may remember, this ad is impactful and nostalgic for a wide range of audiences.

2. Geico recently dropped a 15-minute mockumentary based on their mascot, the Gecko.

“Legend of the Lizard” pays homage to their mascot, creating a backstory that is both rooted in truth as well as fantasy. This is a sentimental but fun way to pay tribute to the brand throughout the years, since they have such a memorable mascot. A mockumentary is surely a fun way to celebrate his lasting impression with audiences!

3. Who could forget the Grimace birthday shake trend from last year?

That’s not what McDonald’s was aiming for when they brought these beloved characters back to life.

While the viral internet trend wasn’t something within their control, it’s a clear consequence of the audience popularity their original characters once had. Bringing once-beloved characters back to life is not only a way to engage younger audiences with something new, but a great way to excite and amaze those that loved them back in the 90’s.

While reviewing these tactics, consider how you could utilize similar ones in your own marketing! How can you highlight how your business has changed, pay homage to your roots, and draw out nostalgia for your audiences? Your business doesn’t need to be decades old to do so, but that surely doesn’t hurt!

If you’d like to start your own personalized marketing strategy, get in touch with us! We’ll start with a free consultation. Our team would be happy to help.