2024 was packed with creativity, innovation, and moments that stuck with us long after we saw them. Here’s our round-up of some effective and memorable marketing campaigns from the past year, each standing out in their own unique way.
Charli XCX owned 2024 with the release of her album brat, and the marketing was nothing short of genius. The vibrant green logo was impossible to miss, popping up everywhere from billboards to collaborations with other brands. Her “brat girl summer” campaign turned the album into a lifestyle, with fans and brands alike embracing the term “brat” to describe everything bold, fun, and unapologetic.
By turning her album into a cultural movement, Charli proved that music marketing is about more than just the music – it’s about owning the moment.
This powerful video campaign for World Down Syndrome Day was a heartwarming reminder of inclusion and breaking stereotypes. The Assume That I Can video featured an individual with Down syndrome, showing that assumptions can often be wrong, and their potential is limitless.
Its moving storytelling resonated deeply, sparking conversations about capability and perception worldwide. The campaign became a viral hit, with viewers applauding its uplifting and empowering message.
Rhode turned heads this year with their innovative ‘lip case’, blending beauty and practicality in a way only they could. The case featured a built-in compartment designed specifically to hold their signature lip balm, making it the ultimate accessory for beauty lovers on the go.
This campaign gained traction very quickly, with influencers and beauty lovers showing off their always on hand Rhode lip balm. It wasn’t just about convenience – it was about Rhode redefining everyday essentials with a chic, branded touch.
McDonald’s research showed that 48% of UK children feel that they need to be happy all the time, even if they don’t want to be. So, in a bold move, they removed the iconic smile from their happy meal packaging for Mental Health Awareness Week, sending a powerful message – “It’s okay not to feel happy all the time.” This subtle but impactful gesture resonated with customers and sparked family conversations about children’s mental health.
By aligning their brand with such an important cause, McDonald’s showed a deeper side to their values, proving that even the smallest changes can make a big impact.
Lush turned heads last year with their Saltburn-inspired white bath bomb, a clever nod to the iconic (and controversial) bath scene in the film Saltburn. While the campaign sparked debates, its quick thinking and reactive marketing were undeniably impressive.
The product became a talking point across social media, proving once again that Lush knows how to tap into pop culture while keeping things fun and topical.
Specsavers delivered another iconic moment last year with their cheeky van-on-a-bollard stunt. What looked like a genuine parking mishap, was revealed to be a part of their ongoing “Should’ve Gone to Specsavers” campaign.
This lighthearted and clever approach to marketing once again strengthened Specsavers’ reputation for humour and relatability. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ideas can have the biggest impact.
From bold branding to heartwarming storytelling, these marketing campaigns weren’t just memorable – they have set the bar for the new year. Here’s to more groundbreaking marketing campaigns in 2025!
