Advertising Age Pronounces 3 Brands to Watch in 2010

We’ve all seen numerous advertisements in 2009 for millions of companies. However, the ads that stuck in consumers’ minds and convinced them to buy some of these products and are developed by people who really know what they are doing.

According to Adage, Apple, Ford, and Subway are three companies that did not exactly make “marketer of the year” for 2009, but there are definitely the front runners for 2010.

Apple has consistently come up with new and innovative products for the everyday consumer like the iPod, various iPod accessories, the iPhone, the Mac, etc. Their campaigns include the “I’m a Mac” ads where they poke fun at the PC. These commercials have been increasingly popular on television as well as the Internet. Apple continues to increase their awareness and loyal following, which are the tools that lead them to the top marketer spot.

As for Ford, they stirred things up when they did not accept the government bailout money when the recession hit. People wondered where Ford would end up; on the streets, or back on top. They used this decline of money as part of their strategy. Ford wants its customers to believe that they can remain independent. They are going back to the basics; the fundamentals. Re-building their core is what will make them stronger. Their marketing strategy will hopefully steal away market share from competitors such as Chrysler and GM.

Lastly, Subway has recently increased their brand awareness and image. The first thing that comes to mind is the $5 footlong, and that catchy jingle they play in the commercials. They have a strong relationship in the sports market, gaining Michael Phelps as a popular celebrity to be shown in the commercials, and count on him for involvement in the 2012 Olympics. Subway has also partnered with the NFL, which of course brings them major awareness and boosts their image. Some say that in the future it could be bigger than the professionals in fast-food themselves, McDonalds. However, it will be hard to take over the famous Golden Arches.

These companies are growing bigger, better, and stronger. Mostly, they are focusing on maintaining what they have achieved in 2008 and 2009, and hope not to lose momentum. Keep an eye out for these brands as they continue to rise to the top.

Do you agree with these top picks?