Iconic Ads

I was driving on Bald Hill Road in Warwick the other day. While stopped at a red traffic light, I looked up and noticed the street sign “Ginsu Way”. I was immediately reminded of the 1970’s when the Ginsu knife was at its peak of popularity, largely because of its savvy promotional techniques. Who can forget the lively demonstration of the knife that could cut through wood, tin cans, and even frozen food, but still remain “razor sharp” and slice a delicate tomato? I believe this Rhode Island based company may even have possibly started the “infomercial”. I started thinking of other iconic names that evoke images with instant recognition. For example, I thought about “Popeil” and his classic line “But wait, there’s more!” not to mention his “Veg-O-Matic”. I also remembered “Mr. Potato Head”; and the “Galloping Gourmet”. It seems, though, that most of the classics can be identified with one word, such as “Cronkite”, “Twiggy”, “Julia” and “Sullivan”. Even later day personalities like “Madonna” and “Britney” fit into this category. Today many businesses are recognizable just by their very well-placed logos. Starbucks & Target are but two great examples of logo recognition. These are all fine examples of creative branding and marketing. I began to wonder what will be the icons of the future. What names will conjure up similar memories for today’s generation? Surely “Facebook”, “YouTube” and “Gaga” will be there. What are some of your past & future picks?