In 1955, believing that submarines would become a popular mode of travel in the Puget Sound, Ivar Haglund installed underwater billboards to direct traffic topside to dine at Ivar’s Seafood restaurant. It appears that three have been brought to the surface. Ivar’s restaurant isn’t saying just yet whether the recovered billboards are the real deal, cautioning that they might be part of an elaborate hoax.
A tireless self-promoter, Ivar Haglund opened the first aquarium on Seattle’s Pier 54 in 1938 and began to sell red clam chowder and fish 'n' chips to feed all the hungry visitors.
Despite his huge reputation for publicity which included strolling to Frederick and Nelson’s department store with Patsy his seal, it’s doubtful that even he envisioned the long-term future and posthumous publicity benefits of advertising with underwater billboards.
What's Driving This Trend
- Underwater Advertising
- The recovery of underwater billboards highlights the potential for innovative advertising strategies in underwater environments.
- Posthumous Publicity
- The use of posthumous advertising can generate publicity and brand awareness long after a business owner's passing.
- Unconventional Promotion
- Unconventional promotional tactics, such as underwater billboards, can capture attention and stand out among the competition.
Who This Affects Most
- Advertising
- The advertising industry can explore new opportunities for creating unique and attention-grabbing campaigns in unconventional locations like underwater.
- Hospitality
- The hospitality industry can consider posthumous advertising as a way to create buzz and draw attention to their establishments.
- Tourism
- The tourism industry can leverage unconventional promotional strategies, like underwater billboards, to attract visitors and create memorable experiences.
