PR stunts have a long history of disrupting the norm and creating massive traction for challenger brands, especially brands that think outside the box to gather public attention and generate word of mouth.
Here are some of the top PR stunts of all time…
- Red Bull Stratos Space Jump: In 2012, Felix Baumgartner jumped from a helium balloon in the stratosphere, breaking the sound barrier during his descent. This stunt garnered massive attention for Red Bull, showcasing its brand as adventurous and daring.
- IKEA’s Sleepover in Store: IKEA allowed customers to spend the night in one of their stores in Australia. This stunt generated buzz around the world, demonstrating IKEA’s commitment to providing comfortable and homey environments.
- Tesla’s Roadster in Space: In 2018, Elon Musk’s SpaceX launched a Tesla Roadster into space as part of the Falcon Heavy rocket’s test flight. This stunt not only showcased SpaceX’s capabilities but also garnered widespread media attention for both SpaceX and Tesla.
- Oreo’s Dunk in the Dark: During the 2013 Super Bowl, Oreo capitalized on the power outage that occurred by tweeting “You can still dunk in the dark.” This real-time marketing moment went viral and demonstrated Oreo’s ability to quickly respond to current events.
- Burger King’s Subservient Chicken: Burger King launched a website featuring a person in a chicken suit who would respond to users’ commands. This interactive campaign went viral, showcasing Burger King’s creativity and humor.
- The Ice Bucket Challenge: This social media campaign went viral in 2014, with participants dumping buckets of ice water over their heads to raise awareness and funds for ALS research. Celebrities and public figures took part, leading to widespread participation and donations.
- Dove’s Real Beauty Campaign: Dove’s campaign featuring real women instead of professional models challenged beauty stereotypes and gained widespread praise for its empowering message.
- Nike’s Just Do It Campaign: Nike’s iconic slogan became synonymous with the brand’s image of determination and athleticism. The campaign featuring athletes like Michael Jordan helped propel Nike to the top of the sports apparel industry.
These stunts demonstrate creativity, humor, and a keen understanding of audience engagement. Whether it’s giant statues, free beer billboards, or quirky food tributes, PR stunts continue to capture our attention and leave a lasting impression.