There is so much buzz in the CGM space right now. I have spoken to 2 reporters on the topic in the last week and a bunch of other marketers (some of whom are already sick of it and others who love it). In fairness though, some of the first CGM for brands started way back literally in the hands of people.
Yes, I am talking about Corporate Tattoos.
Check this:
According to the International Trademark Association, the Harley tattoo is still the most widespread corporate logo tattoo in North America (Sheldon, et al. 2001). In recent years, however, logo tattoos have spread out into other corporate brands: Nike, Adidas, Budweiser, Corona, Apple computers, Ford, Chevy, Volkswagen, just to mention a few.
This is from 2003, I can only imagine that the increased instances of inking (i3 of course) and the glut of more youth focused brands have increased the variety of brands that people are getting permanently implanted in their skin.
The fact is that people love brands. They think that certain brands (Nike, Apple, etc.) reflect who they are, what they stand for. It used to be The Grateful Dead, now it is Manga. Where once they were willing to be walking billboards, they are now using their creative thinking to communicate their passions (both branded and not) with the current tools of expression - video/audio/animation/etc.
So while we are hot on the current trend, let's pay a little respect (cringing all the while) to those who were willing to go where we dare not.
LINKS:
Apple Ink
Disney Ink
Nike Ink
Harley Ink
VW Ink
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