Nike Spoof Ads Get a Non-Conformist Makeover in Unswooshing
Taylor Keefe — November 23, 2011 — Marketing
References: nike & adbusters.org
Branding and marketing are important aspects for any company, yet Nike spoof ads -- a phenomena commonly referred to as Unswooshing -- are undermining the clothing giant's attempt for your affection.
Nike spoof ads are just one of the many ways that anti-conformists, anti-consumerists and the people heading up the 'Occupy' movements want to subvert the marketing tactics of big businesses. Nike is a dominant international conglomerate that puts big money into advertising and branding its many products, so when a slew of spoof ads began to hit the Internet, the company couldn't do much but sit back and take in all the criticism. The ads are comedic and in good fun, such as the Tiger Woods "swoosh smile" and the tagline "Just Douche It."
The ads represent a growing sentiment that consumers feel like they are prey, or "a herd of sheep," enslaved to Nike's influential advertising, marketing and branding campaigns which have a global reach.
Nike spoof ads are just one of the many ways that anti-conformists, anti-consumerists and the people heading up the 'Occupy' movements want to subvert the marketing tactics of big businesses. Nike is a dominant international conglomerate that puts big money into advertising and branding its many products, so when a slew of spoof ads began to hit the Internet, the company couldn't do much but sit back and take in all the criticism. The ads are comedic and in good fun, such as the Tiger Woods "swoosh smile" and the tagline "Just Douche It."
The ads represent a growing sentiment that consumers feel like they are prey, or "a herd of sheep," enslaved to Nike's influential advertising, marketing and branding campaigns which have a global reach.
Trend Themes
1. Anti-consumerist Sentiment - The rise of Nike spoof ads reflects a growing sentiment among consumers that they are tired of being influenced by big brands' marketing tactics.
2. Subversive Marketing - Unswooshing mocks traditional advertising and branding strategies, presenting an opportunity for businesses to explore unconventional and disruptive marketing approaches.
3. Consumer Empowerment - The popularity of Nike spoof ads highlights a desire among consumers to reclaim their autonomy and challenge the influence of corporate advertising, presenting an opportunity for businesses to prioritize transparency and customer empowerment.
Industry Implications
1. Apparel and Footwear - The Unswooshing trend in Nike spoof ads indicates a need for the apparel and footwear industry to reevaluate their marketing tactics and connect with consumers on a more authentic and relatable level.
2. Advertising and Branding - The rise of Nike spoof ads presents opportunities within the advertising and branding industry to explore innovative and disruptive strategies that break away from traditional approaches.
3. Consumer Activism - The emergence of Unswooshing reflects a growing segment of consumers who are actively engaging in activism against big brands, highlighting the need for industries to listen to and adapt to consumer demands.
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