According to an article on the NY Times website, the Democratic National Convention has brought more than just politicians and Democratic party supporters to Denver, CO. The massive attention the conventions are bringing this year represent perfect marketing opportunities for corporate America. Big name companies, such as Google, Best Buy, Pfizer, FedEx, Allstate, AT&T and Hewlett-Packard are already spending big bucks at both the DNC and the Republican National Convention to "promote their brands and their political agendas". Going with the "green theme" of the DNC, Union Pacific Railroad put on display their new hybrid locomotive, and Coco-Cola, named the "official recycling provider" promoted "recycling and offering free samples of the company’s vitamin water, lemonade, tea and Coke Zero".
The conventions are just some of the ways companies are using large scale attractions to promote their products in innovative ways. The Super Bowl is the one used most often by companies, but this summer brought the Olympics and the two political conventions, giving companies even more of a chance to showcase their goods. However, these prime marketing spots don't come cheap; Qwest, a telecommunications provider donated $6 million dollars worth of telecommunication services "to each host committee". That same amount of money will get a company only two 30 second spots at the Super Bowl.
1 comment:
I like this article. It is good to hear that there is more going on at the conventions than what most envision. As well, the idea that companies are going to the convention almost as a trade show is a marketing idea that millions will see. The “green” theme is rising again here, which could make a difference being at a political event. I like how G.M is using Molson-Coors Brewing Company beer to power their “flex”cars with beer that was damaged in production…very cool.
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