Virgin is known for their cutting edge ads, but they're also known for stirring up quite a controversy. The latest ads, which will run in a Toronto newspaper, are for Virgin Mobile and were inspired by the Eliot Spitzer scandal.
Using the political mishap to create the shockvertisement, the Virgin Mobile's print campaign features a photograph of a bashfully smirking Spitzer with a thought bubble that reads, "I'm tired of being treated like a number." At the bottom is Virgin's tagline, "You call the shots."
The fine print reads, "At Virgin Mobile, you're more than just a number. When you call us we'll treat you like a person, not a client. Whether you're #9 or #900, you'll get hooked up with somebody who'll finally treat you just how you want to be treated."
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Shockvertising
- Opportunity for brands to create controversial and attention-grabbing ads inspired by current scandals or societal issues.
- Personalized Customer Service
- The trend of treating customers as individuals and providing tailored experiences based on their specific needs and preferences.
- Print Advertising Revival
- Return to print media as a platform for impactful and creative advertising campaigns.
Where This Applies
- Telecommunications
- Opportunity for telecommunications companies to differentiate themselves by offering personalized customer service and using shockvertising tactics to stand out in a crowded market.
- Marketing and Advertising
- Opportunity for marketing and advertising agencies to tap into the trend of shockvertising and help brands create controversial campaigns that generate buzz and attention.
- Print Media
- Opportunity for newspapers and magazines to leverage the revival of print advertising by partnering with brands to create impactful and attention-grabbing print campaigns.
