Thursday, September 25, 2008

Positioning: Flat Earth

I agree with the way Flat Earth has positioned their brand. Through the commercial frequently shown on television, a viewer will interpret the ad as being directed towards people who are concerned with being healthy. This is true. The consumer may get the overall point of the brand, but what most do not see is the advantages of buying this brand over another. The ad shows a women chasing after a pig who will then lead her to these chips. The woman begins to taste them casually and nods her head slightly saying to herself "Mmmmm.... these are so tasty." The chips have a half serving of vegetables in every ounce and taste good to the consumer. Many women are focused on eating healthier because as they are approaching an older age, being healthy is a main concern.

The one thing I would change about their positioning is to target their brand not just to women, but to everyone, especially college students. The chips are not greasy like most are, so students do not need to worry about wiping their hands on their nice clothes. Also it provides another healthy alternative to fruits and vegetables when you are on the run. I think that their commercial was very cute with the pig. I wanted to take him home as a pet. I enjoyed watching the commercial it made me happy and bubbly. I really wanted some pita chips after watching it.

Being a college student I am always looking for something quick to eat while I am on the go. I find myself eating a bunch of pita chips. I enjoy the taste and some are pretty healthy for you. I have tried Flat Earth and I believe their pits chips are some of the best out there. After watching their commercial, I am more aware of their specific qualities that I did not know of before hand. I believe that if they are going to target their brand to college students they need to do more advertising to that market. There are plenty of college aged students just like me who need something healthy and quick to eat while they rush from class to class. They should put up chip stands at colleges worldwide and show ads that portray college students snacking on a pack of their chips.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Brand Identity: American Eagle

When I hear the name American Eagle many images and charities come to mind. I think of their clothes being of a moderate price level; not too expensive and not way cheap. I think of the charity events the AE Foundation supports such as Jumpstart and Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Many consumers think of the logo of the eagle when they hear American Eagle. I the cluster of letters that represent their name, AEO, is the picture my mind paints. Also I think of all the sub-brands that the company has. The core name most people know is American Eagle Outfitters, but the company also has Aerie (dorm and lounge wear for girls), 77 kids (for little ones), and Martin + Osa (sophisticated apparel, high price level). I love what AE stands for and what they do to give back to th community and consumers around their locations.
When I asked my family what AE meant to them or what they thought of when they heard the name I got tons of responses. My step-dad said " Where my money always goes and those dang blue bags." I had to laugh to myself because he was so right. They are known for their big/small blue bags with the name American Eagle Outfitters and the eagle displayed large on front and back. My mom said she thinks about the quality of their jeans and how well they fit. I always go to AE to buy jeans because I know my size in that store and I know that they will always fit just the way I want them to. My sister said she liked their return policy. I do agree with her on that. Their policy is one of the best around! Returning items at any store is a breeze and easy to take care of on a lunch break.
American Eagle is a brand known worldwide for its basic t-shirt and jeans style. Over the years they have changed their look along with society. People know this brand for their quality goods and reliable jean fits. The brand offers reasonable prices for their clothes and accessories, but also have another option for those who are willing to pay a higher price for their apparel.