Sportswear label Nike draws in former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick to star in its latest 'Just Do It' ad campaign. This mark's the label's 30th anniversary of the iconic campaign -- this year, the ad includes Colin Kaepernick with a message over his face that reads "Believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything." In 2016, Kaepernick began kneeling during the national anthem that plays before NFL games in protest of racial inequality and police brutality. As a result of his actions, he has gone unsigned since the season and has not represented Nike in the past two years until now.
The simplistic black and white campaign makes a statement for the brand as it clearly makes it known to the public of where its beliefs lie in the political matter. Kaepernick's ad is one among many in this year's Just Do It campaign, garnering the attention of those all over the globe.
Inspirational Sportswear Campaigns
Colin Kaepernick Stars in Nike's New Just Do It Ad Campaign
Trend Themes
1. Social Activism in Advertising - Nike's Just Do It campaign featuring Colin Kaepernick highlights the trend of brands incorporating social activism into their advertising, creating opportunities for brands to align with causes and connect with socially conscious consumers.
2. Controversial Brand Endorsements - Colin Kaepernick's endorsement in Nike's Just Do It campaign reflects the trend of brands embracing controversial figures as brand ambassadors, presenting opportunities for brands to generate buzz, engage in conversations, and differentiate themselves from competitors.
3. Bold Marketing Statements - Nike's black and white Just Do It campaign with Colin Kaepernick exemplifies the trend of brands making bold marketing statements to stand out and create emotional connections with consumers, presenting opportunities for brands to make a lasting impact
Industry Implications
1. Sportswear - The sportswear industry can leverage the trend of social activism in advertising to connect with consumers who are passionate about social causes and position their brand as socially responsible.
2. Advertising and Marketing - The advertising and marketing industry can explore the trend of controversial brand endorsements to create attention-grabbing campaigns that generate strong brand awareness and foster meaningful brand-consumer relationships.
3. Fashion and Apparel - The fashion and apparel industry can adopt the trend of bold marketing statements to differentiate their brands, create brand loyalty, and captivate consumers who seek brands that represent their values.