Today In Social Media: Ford Dealers & The ‘Retail Movement’
It's no secret that Ford's "Fiesta Movement" campaign has been a huge success. Though some critics found it slightly cloying and trendy, the program made great use of web resources like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter to generate brand awareness. Now the company is asking dealerships to join the "Retail Movement" in advance of the Fiesta's launch next summer. Participants must commit to using social media outlets and other grassroots marketing tactics, though dealers can recoup up to 80% of their costs after completion of the project. Dealer education of this sort is a fantastic idea, and to see Ford start the campaign now -- months before the Fiesta launch -- shows that the company has its head fully in the game. [MediaPost]
This story originally appeared at The Car Connection
Audi Ups Advertising In Response To Crumbling Economy
In economic times like these, most companies are looking to trim expenses. Many start by scaling back their marketing budgets -- which, as anyone who's taken Marketing 101 can tell you, is a pretty bad idea. Audi, however, has gone in the other direction, with a 20% increase in advertising and plans to run spots during the Super Bowl. The result? Audi is now stealing Lexus customers left and right, and in the U.S., the company has managed to keep its 2009 sales decline in the 8.7% range -- far better than the double-digit dips seen at most other automakers. Chrysler peeps, are you guys taking notes? [MediaPost]
This story originally appeared at The Car Connection
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kicks Off
Back in 2007, Mercedes-Benz made a brilliant marketing move, scoring the title sponsorship of IMG Fashion's semi-annual Fashion Week in New York. The multimillion-dollar deal keeps the brand front and center of celebrities, publishers, the media, and other insanely wealthy tastemakers. It's an over-the-top, swanky event, and it's a perfect marketing match for Mercedes-Benz, on par with Buick's former deal with the PGA. The Spring 2010 shows kick off today in Bryant Park, so if you're a design enthusiast wanting a break from next week's Frankfurt news, you know where to find it. [PRNewswire]
This story originally appeared at The Car Connection
