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Why science doesn’t help sell chocolate chip cookies

Researchers found that invoking science in marketing pleasurable products like cookies decreases consumer interest. However, pairing science with practicality makes sense to consumers. The study suggests updating public beliefs about scientists and their approach to make science more acceptable for marketing indulgent goods.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

‘Patient influencers’ the new frontier in direct-to-consumer drug marketing

The partnership between pharma companies and patient influencers has raised concerns about the potential risks and benefits. While some see it as a way to improve disease awareness and treatment options, others worry about misinformation and advertising blurring the lines between opinion and ad content.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 12, 2022

In-vitro fertilization clinics offering money-back guarantees achieve better outcomes with less aggressive treatments

Research found that IVF clinics offering money-back guarantees have a higher live-birth success rate and lower multiple birth risks compared to those without MBGs. The study suggests that these programs serve as signals of high-quality care in the field of IVF and other healthcare services.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateMar 23, 2022

A voice inside my head: The persuasive power headphones have on listeners

A recent study found that headphones increase perceptions of closeness, warmth, and empathy, making listeners more easily persuaded. The research has significant implications for advertising, remote work, and training programs, suggesting that using headphones can be an effective way to create a sense of attachment with the listener.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

Research demonstrates importance of consistent branding in political television ads

A study by Washington University in St. Louis found that slant and consistency of messages in national television ads significantly impact online word-of-mouth chatter and candidate preference. Consistency with the primary message is crucial, even for more partisan messages, suggesting that campaign strategies should focus on building ...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalQuantitative Marketing and Economics·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 9, 2022

Otago study finds children exposed to a brand a minute

A new study from the University of Otago found that children are exposed to 554 brands per 10-hour day, or nearly a brand a minute. The majority of these exposures occurred in school, at home, and in-store, with most coming from brand labels, product packaging, and commercial signage.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeObservational study·DateJan 18, 2022

Live-streaming ads for alcohol, junk food increased during pandemic

A Penn State study found that live-streaming ads for alcohol, energy drinks, and junk food significantly increased during the pandemic, targeting young viewers. The researchers discovered that energy drinks made up nearly 80% of marketing, while ads for restaurants and soda were also prevalent.

SourcePenn State·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2021

Infant formula websites overtly discourage breastfeeding

A study by New York University researchers found that infant formula websites predominantly discourage breastfeeding and instead tout the benefits of formula feeding. The analysis of five major formula brands' websites revealed that substantial messaging focused on challenges associated with breastfeeding, such as low milk supply or la...

SourceNew York University·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateSep 14, 2021

BU study explores the effect of consumer advertising of cosmetic procedures on patients

A new Boston University School of Medicine study explores the impact of direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising on patients seeking cosmetic procedures. The research found that DTC ads often exaggerate benefits while minimizing risks, suggesting that patients may believe that trained medical professionals are not necessary for these proce...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalDermatologic Surgery·TypeCase study·DateSep 9, 2021

TV ads inspire investment interest

A new study by Cornell University reveals that TV ads significantly influence retail investors' decisions, leading to increased online searches and stock trading volumes. The study found that certain types of ads, such as those airing during prime-time hours or for financial sector products, generated the strongest investor response.

SourceCornell University·JournalManagement Science·DateAug 12, 2021

Digital marketing improves product recall compliance, providing a new tool to enhance consumer safety

A new study found that a digital marketing campaign increased the number of vehicles fixed due to recalls, with a positive impact for airbag inflator-related recalls. The campaign also improved recall compliance for older vehicles, highlighting the effectiveness of digital tools in facilitating consumer access to relevant information.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 3, 2021

Near the toys and the candy bars

A recent study by Dr. Yael Bar-Zeev at Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that tobacco companies are exploiting loopholes to market IQOS products near toys, candy, and schools, targeting young consumers. The audit revealed that 70% of stores selling IQOS were within 300 meters of high schools.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJul 12, 2021

How firms can navigate competitors' pitfalls without being 'tarred by the same brush'

Researchers found that firms with a larger advertising share of voice have lower stock price synchronicity, indicating reduced risk of being 'tarred by the same brush' as competitors. Advertising can also provide firm-specific information to investors, reducing information asymmetry and increasing investor willingness to provide capital.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 11, 2021

Soft drink ads target 'vulnerable'

A Flinders University study found participants with an automatic bias towards soft drinks were more responsive to TV ads than those without these tendencies. The researchers suggest targeting people who show cognitive vulnerabilities to reduce consumption of sugary drinks.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAppetite·DateMay 27, 2021

Can the digital advertising market achieve privacy without regulation?

New research finds machine learning improves click-through rates by 66.8% over simpler targeting models, with behavioral data offering more accurate targeting in mobile ads. Ad networks may have economic incentives to limit granular behavioral targeting, potentially leading to self-regulation and consumer privacy protection.