Have you snagged your Stanley tumblers yet? Because if not, you’re about to dive into a story that might just send you sprinting to the nearest store or online shop. Stanley, the silent legend founded in 1913, has been up to some serious business, and if you haven’t caught wind of their recent resurgence, you’re in for a treat. Grab your favorite beverage, preferably from a Stanley tumbler, and let’s dive into this viral journey and how marketing has shaped this brand!
Brief Story
In 1913, Stanley was founded, quietly crafting products that stood the test of time. William Stanley embarked on a quest to ensure his coffee stayed piping hot throughout his workday. Drawing inspiration from the principles he gleaned during the development of transformers, as per the Stanley website, he ingeniously crafted an all-steel, double-wall vacuum bottle – proudly affixing his family name to it. Fast forward to 2019, the tides of virality began turning for the brand, and it’s all thanks to a series of strategic marketing moves that transformed their 40-ounce insulated tumblers from overlooked to outstanding.
How It All Started: The Buy Guide and an Instagram Revelation
Back in 2019, Stanley’s tumblers weren’t exactly flying off the shelves until The Buy Guide, a shopping-focused outlet and Instagram sensation, stepped in. These guys knew a gem when they saw one. They gifted one of Stanley’s 40-ounce insulated tumblers to Emily Maynard Johnson, the social media queen from “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette.” And magically, Emily’s Instagram post set off a chain reaction.
Then, a Stanley excecutive noticed the buzz and threw an offer at The Buy Guide: buy thousands of Quenchers straight from Stanley. Cue the nerves, but these guys took the plunge, snagging 5,000 cups, setting the stage for what was about to become an epic comeback.
The Marketing Magic Behind the Madness
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Social Proof in the Strangest Places: The Car Fire Video
Ever seen a car on fire? Probably not as compelling as when it’s holding up a Stanley tumbler. In November 2023, a viral video showed just that. A car wreck, flames everywhere, and guess what survived? Yep, you got it – the Stanley tumbler. Talk about social proof that screams durability!
@dailymail @Danielle says the ice in her Stanley cup survived a CAR FIRE that incinerated her vehicle – but left the insulated container completely intact. #fyp #stanleycup #carfire #accident #wholesome ♬ original sound – Daily Mail
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Influencers and Celebs Jumping on the Bandwagon
Stanley owes a chunk of its comeback to influencers and celebrities who can’t stop gushing about the brand. Social media platforms have been flooded with shoutouts, making the Quencher a must-have accessory for the cool kids.
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#WaterTok: Where Hydration Meets Quencher Mania
Ever heard of #WaterTok? It’s a hydration-focused subculture, and they’ve adopted the Quencher like it’s their own. Did you know the hashtag #WaterTok has garnered more than 103.7 million views at the time of writing but has sparked confusion and concern across social media?Water enthusiasts sharing “recipes” to spice up their hydration game are all about Stanley’s product. It’s become the go-to for the water connoisseurs out there.
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Revamping the Brand Game
Furthermore, Stanley pulled off a makeover like no other. From a product not catching anyone’s eye to a viral sensation, that’s a serious glow-up. Strategic rebranding breathed new life into the brand, proving that sometimes all it takes is a fresh perspective.
The Marketing Masterclass You Can’t Ignore
Stanley’s journey from the shadows to the limelight is a lesson in marketing mastery. Social proof, influencer love, a dash of #WaterTok, and a strategic brand facelift – it’s the perfect concoction that propelled Stanley into the digital age spotlight. However, this isn’t just about tumblers; it’s a story of how marketing can redefine a brand’s destiny. At BC & Associates Marketing, we understand the intricacies of effective marketing. We’re here for you if you’re ready to elevate your brand and connect with a broader audience.
Ready to spark your unique opportunities and ignite your marketing? Take the first step by scheduling a complimentary 15-minute fit call with us at calendly.com/bcassociatesmarketing/15-minute_fit_call. Let’s delve into how our small business marketing agency, backed by over 25 years of expertise, can streamline and optimize your marketing efforts, elevate your business, and propel you towards your digital marketing goals. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to transform your business—book your call now!
