The 'madferits' showed exactly how powerful nostalgia can be. It takes us back to (perceived) happier, simpler times, igniting sentimentality, joy and yearning. There is an instant comfort in fond memories and rose-tinted perspectives, and brands attaching themselves to this emotional response can thrive from this association. An emotional connection to a brand holds significant power, it has the potential to turn a one-time customer into a lifelong fan.
Hollywood heavyweight Ben Stiller is trading his director's chair for an entrepreneur's cap, launching Stiller's Soda in his hometown of New York City. But this isn't just another celebrity beverage play: it's a strategic entry into the rapidly evolving better-for-you soda market that's reshaping the entire food and beverage industry.
Nostalgia has become an inescapable feature of the 2020s. Whether it's the resurgence of Y2K fashion, old digital cameras or reruns of Friends, The Office or Gilmore Girls. Gen-Z are looking to teleport back to a more comfortable, less stressful past. And brands are looking to capitalize on the demand for retro fashion, products and experiences. But what makes nostalgia so powerful? What are the benefits and watchouts of nostalgia marketing?
Restaurant chain Pizza Hut has announced a new logo design for its branches in the UK, Canada and some other markets. The new look moves away from the round background (below) - presumably meant to evoke a pizza - and has echoes of an older design originally introduced in the 1970s, which is still used in the US today. The refreshed brand retains the iconic 'hut' element of the design, and, like some previous versions, uses an italicised fonts.