The BrewDog 'Hello My Name is Vladimir' drink criticizes Russian leadership through beverage branding. Referred to as 'the world's first protest beer,' the product openly declares that it isn't for gay shoppers.
This satirical labeling was produced in direct response to Russia's anti-gay legislation. The Scottish brand played up on its focus on the nation's rules through images of Vladimir Putin wearing make-up in front of yellow, pink and blue backdrops. These pictures line the circumference of the bottles, getting straight to the point of the labels.
An accompany #notforgays hashtag was used to further promote this ale. Sarcastic statements on stickers that read "I am 100% hetero and will pass laws to prove it" drive home the company's will to portray this serious issue in a humorous manner.
Breweries and bars wishing to make politically charged statements will find inspiration in this product that, though focused on Russia, could extend to several other countries.
Political Beer Branding
The BrewDog 'Hello My Name is Vladimir' Drink Mocks Russian Leadership
Trend Themes
1. Political Branding - Opportunity for breweries and brands to use political statements and satire in their product marketing.
2. Protest Beverages - Emerging trend of creating drinks that openly criticize political leadership or societal issues.
3. Humorous Activism - Growing movement of using humor and satire as a form of activism to address serious social and political issues.
Industry Implications
1. Breweries - Breweries can leverage political branding to create socially-conscious products that appeal to a specific consumer segment.
2. Alcoholic Beverages - Opportunity for the alcoholic beverage industry to create protest-oriented drinks that spark conversation and raise awareness.
3. Marketing and Advertising - Marketing agencies can explore the use of satirical and politically charged campaigns to attract attention and create buzz for brands.