The Email Wars

So just how many brands and individuals are using the new president as a way to jump into the marketing efforts of the BarackEconomy? I have been on the look out for brands that have started to use it as a way of cashing in on search and tying themselves to the “optimism” in the new president. I also noticed this AM while on a call with FastCo/Inc that they have an article on just this subject as well. Timely.

We have seen JCrew use the Michelle Obama reference to where she buys her clothes not only in email but also in search, which in many cases shows up in the inbox as well with paid terms. Now hitting my inbox is a new flavor or Ben and Jerry’s. What is next… Borders using a list of Top Books Obama would read? (OH WAIT ABE BOOKS IS) Or an email marketing service provider releasing a new Obama version of their software?

I understand that the natural tie in is going to happen. We are seeing a grass roots retail trade shape up on the streets of major cities with beannies and t-shirts. That is to be expected. What I am not ready for is brand marketers in consumer packaged goods to jump on the band wagon. I feel that it is really a bad play. I mean why wasn’t there some Bushio’s or GW Pop Tarts? Oh yeah, he had a bad reputation and not many of us would have bought that junk. Would have sounded like it tasted good, but stuck to the top of your mouth for 8 years.

Getting back on target now… think twice about how you decide to tie your brand to some things in life. I personally feel that some things should remain out of the political realm. Including my pint of ice cream. Or maybe I will just go upload my dog’s photo to use this promo I found to place your pet as the new First Pet. I mean why not just take the insanity to the next level?