After the 2016 American election, a New Balance statement that appeared to align the brand with Donald Trump resulted in many consumers throwing away and even burning their sneakers in protest.
It's reported that the company’s Vice President of Public Affairs, Matt LeBretton, said in an Wall Street Journal interview that "The Obama admin turned a deaf ear to us and frankly with Pres-Elect Trump we feel things are going to move in the right direction." Later, it was clarified that he was referencing Donald Trump's stance on a specific trade agreement. Despite this, the New Balance statement has resulted in a divide among its consumers, which some of its rivals are profiting from.
This is especially true for Reebok, as the brand has responded to videos of consumers throwing out and burning their sneakers by offering them a new pair. In doing so, the brand sides with those taking a stand against the president-elect, helping it to bring in more loyal consumers for itself.
Rival Sneaker Giveaways
Reebok Boldly Responded to a Controversial New Balance Statement
Trend Themes
1. Political Stance-driven Marketing - Brands are taking a stand on political issues and leveraging their stance for effective marketing campaigns.
2. Controversial Marketing Response - Rival brands are using controversial statements made by competitors as a marketing opportunity to gain more customers.
3. Brand Loyalty Through Social Responsibility - Consumers are supporting brands that take a stance on social and political issues, leading to increased brand loyalty.
Industry Implications
1. Athletic Footwear - Athletic footwear brands are leveraging political and social issues to differentiate themselves and gain more customers.
2. Marketing and Advertising - Marketing and advertising agencies that help brands take a stance on political and social issues can differentiate themselves and attract more clients.
3. Consumer Goods - Consumer goods companies that take a stance on social and political issues can increase brand loyalty and attract more customers.