When Brands Take a Stand

Our temporary display When Brands Take a Stand presents TV commercials, posters and packaging that showcase how brands interact with social causes and contemporary issues.
Brands and advertising have the power to influence society. They affect the way we see ourselves and how we engage with others and the world we live in. When large brands and businesses take a stand on societal and political issues, it can resonate strongly with consumers; often positively but sometimes negatively. What happens when a frozen food brand takes a stand against palm oil production, a sports brand fights for equal rights, or a chocolate brand celebrates LGBTQ+ pride?
Throughout 2020 brands have continued to use socially-charged campaigns. Our display includes examples of how brands have responded to the Black Lives Matter Movement, and spotlights how brands have used TV adverts to talk about pandemic-related issues such as isolation, the availability of healthcare, homelessness and the loss of jobs in sectors such as hospitality. Including campaigns that have been well received such as Carlsberg’s ‘Adopt a Keg’ scheme, and those that drew criticism such as Facebook’s ‘We’re Never Lost’ campaign.
Chris Griffin, CEO at the Museum of Brands says, “We want to amplify the debate around the relationship between brands, people, culture and society, and how these interact with each other. Brands and advertising agencies have a platform to influence, and with that comes responsibility. This initiative dives into these complex relationships.”
The display presents a variety of advertising campaigns that take a stand for causes such as diversity, inclusion, environmentalism, health, wellbeing and human rights, including those that have been well-received and those that have drawn widespread criticism.
This display has been compiled by the Museum of Brands team with the support of expert advisors.
Admission tickets to the Museum include full access to our exhibitions. By buying a ticket you are helping us to continue with our mission. The Museum of Brands is a registered Charity no. 1093538.