Expobank, a leading Russian bank, has pushed the boat out with their 2008 calender which features some of their female workers in scantily clad, risque poses. To be fair, it really does beat the Halifax adverts in the UK where workers sing and dance (think nails down a blackboard and you're close.)
"Stripping calenders" have been done to death but the real joy in this trend is of course the fact it is a leading Russian bank behind the calender. Much enjoyment can also be gained from the bank's press release about the calender where the reasoning behind the decision all becomes every so clear.
Russian Bank Employee Calenders
Expobank's Naughty Promotion
Trend Themes
1. Stripping Calendars - Opportunity for businesses to create unique and attention-grabbing calendars that feature their employees in provocative poses.
2. Corporate Branding - Potential for companies to use unconventional marketing strategies to stand out and generate buzz.
3. Controversial Advertising - Chance for businesses to stir up attention and controversy by pushing the boundaries of traditional advertising.
Industry Implications
1. Banking - Opportunity for banks to break away from their traditional image and create a buzz around their brand through unconventional marketing campaigns.
2. Fashion - Option for fashion industry to collaborate with banks or other businesses to create provocative calendars that combine financial services with fashion-forward visuals.
3. Marketing and Advertising - Opportunity for marketing and advertising agencies to help businesses create attention-grabbing campaigns that challenge societal norms and generate buzz.