Dive Brief:
- PepsiCo's Mountain Dew brand rolled out limited-edition bottles nationally that feature artwork emblematic of every state, according to a company statement. The beverage brand also said it's giving $100 prepaid gift cards to customers who collect all 50 bottles and released the limited-edition Liberty Brew, which combines 50 different signature flavors.
- As part of its "DewNited States" campaign, the company created more than 450 unique creative assets tailored to each state, including video content, digital and social ads and in-store displays. From June 3 through July, Mtn Dew will also deploy 50 different 15-second ads, which include animated shorts and a version of "America the Beautiful" by all-female rock group Boytoy.
- Consumers will also be able to access local DewNited States Snapchat filters, customized merchandise and augmented reality (AR) experiences. The campaign will also have a presence at Dew Tour, an extreme sports circuit sponsored by Mtn Dew.
Dive Insight:
Mountain Dew is using its summer campaign to recognize the variety of activities Americans engage in and celebrating those differences as a example of what makes the country great, as evidenced by its use of "America the Beautiful" for the musical portion. Coming at a divisive time in American society, the brand appears to be trying to put a positive spin on the idea of differences, which somewhat contrasts mainstream media's focus on the perils of a divided nation. As such, the campaign feels tailor-made for Gen Z, which is a very diverse generation and one that generally appreciates celebrating those differences.
Creating a national campaign that's customized by state also enables Mtn Dew to make its messaging more personal, something marketers recognize the need for but often struggle to execute at scale. Mtn Dew is relying heavily on digital tech to enable the customized elements of the campaign, which could help it engage younger consumers at a time when soft drink companies have struggled to lure millennials and Gen Zers as they opt for healthier drinks. The unique 15-second digital ads for every state will feature animations to bring the artwork from each label to life. Elements of each state will also be used in the distinct Snapchat filters and AR experiences.
The brand's attempt at mass customization is reminiscent of Coca Cola's "Share a Coke" campaign that featured people's first names and was the brand's summer marketing tent-pole for several years. AB InBev has previously adorned its bottles and cans with the names of 11 states where the popular beer is produced and released a lineup of patriotic packaging to help raise money for armed forces members and their families.
AB InBev, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo and other companies have generated buzz and increased revenue following the introduction of new packaging that is tailored to a specific person or segment of the population. In an industry thirsty for growth, more clever designs are all but certain as companies work to attract consumers and keep them engaged with the product.