An email from the Dominican Republic

Here’s an email I’d like to pass along, from Erica Monteith, sister of my office mate Ian.
We spend a lot of time worrying about business issues that seem overwhelming. Once in a while reality intrudes with a gentle tap on the shoulder. To better appreciate your circumstances and blessings, read this:

Stan Richards is a smart man

Richards, founder of The Richards Group, says his agency is a better, happier place for long ago adopting a policy of not defending existing accounts in agency reviews, according to this article in Ad Age.

Just for fun, which of these commercials do you like better?

Two Western-flavored TV commercials for two western-flavored hamburgers.
One from Burger King, the other from Jack in the Box.
Your thoughts?

“5 reasons you no longer need an ad agency”

This post by Sean X Cummings covers a favorite topic: the evolution of the ad agency business. There’s plenty to agree and disagree with in Sean’s post. If you’re currently with an agency, or own one, maybe you’ll agree with the post, and at the same time think: He’s talking about OTHER agencies… We’re different.

The Martin Agency loses UPS; picks up Expedia, Sun Life Financial

Just a reminder of what a tough industry this is: Last week, The Martin Agency withdrew from its bid to retain UPS as a client — a client for which it has created stellar and effective work.

Wieden+Kennedy wins Delta Airlines account

Delta Airlines is the world’s biggest airline. Did you know that? I didn’t. Well, maybe I had heard it once or twice, after the merger with Northwest. But who pays attention to anything about airlines anymore, other than Southwest?

Marketing promos that went horribly wrong

Were they bad ideas, bad execution, or both? You decide.
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More marketing inspiration

In a purely entertainment, this Pringles banner is wonderful. But it raises a few questions about the marketing value.
When people click the ad, what about it would make anyone buy the product? Is there anything compelling, other than the creativity of the ad? There seems to be a leap in logic from the funny commentary, [...]

Lies that hurt our profession, part 3

With all the consumer information available today, it’s amazing that companies continue to be Clintonesque in the way they they talk to the public. Unsurprisingly, car dealers seem to be the leaders in abusing truth and clarity.

Addy Awards: Did you get yours?

The American Advertising Federation Awards for the Northwest were just announced. 48 gold and 216 silver awards were distributed amongst 560 entrants, a winning rate of 47%. Just a little more effort, and they could have sent everyone home a winner.