Best Ads of the Year

Branding Lessons from the Best Ads of 2015

As 2015 comes to a close, it’s time to review the best ads of the year. The criteria? I loved them AND remembered the brand name. Read and watch below to get my color commentary as to why these commercials work.

1. UBS –Asking Life’s Tough Questions
   

Let’s face it; financial ads are mostly boring and depressing. Do you have enough money to retire? No! Are you saving enough? No! But, this commercial finally asks the right questions. Simple text on a white background and you’re drawn in.

WHY IT WORKS: Often less is more when it comes to selling your message.

1. Amazon – Lonely Little Horse
   

It’s a big surprise when a little horse trots down the ramp to its new owner. How does she make it special for him? By ordering a mini door thanks to same day delivery from Amazon. Precious!

WHY IT WORKS: Animals and kids have the uncanny ability to pull our heartstrings.

1. Fruit of the Loom – It’s all About the Scotsmen
   

Selling underwear is hard, especially when you don’t take a Victoria’s Secret approach.

WHY IT WORKS: It addresses the reality that it isn’t holiday season unless you get socks and underwear; don’t forget to get inside the reality of your customer too.

1. Hyundai – The 2016 Hyundai Tucson
   

I’ve always wondered where those raving NFL rans got their fences for the ubiquitous “de-fense” – apparently, from their own front yard!

WHY IT WORKS: It looks at the situation from a new angle; don’t forget to answer the question that everyone is asking anyway!

1. Apple – Stevie Wonder & Andra Day Someday at Christmas
   

Close your eyes and listen or open them and watch a beautiful sight: singing the melodies of the holidays.

WHY IT WORKS: It isn’t selling a product, but an entire brand experience thanks to Apple; try it sometime.

To a red hot new year!

Liz

PS: What did I miss? Share below.