Tag Archives: christmas



Charities quite simply destroying themselves

May 20th, 2009

Every christmas there are two I remember:

  1. The Salvation Army, they provide cheer and good will by having the band play christmas carols. ย I really enjoy this and typically give them a few dollars.
  2. Cruelty against Animals, they typically dress up in dog costumes asking for money.

(Note: I ran into both of these within 10 minutes of each other a weekend before christmas.)

One of these is providing a positive experience and thus building their brand and goodwill. ย The other is hassling consumers and destroying brand value.

I daresay the collections for the former are much higher than that of the latter.

I do not hold anything against the cause itself I just think they could be doing it better.

How about having big cute dogs out in public to pat? Or having some dogs doing some tricks, or show huge photos of animals that have been saved.

As honestly when we (yes you and me) are stressed, pushing through the crowds, doing our shopping, the absolute last thing we want is something to make us feel guilty. ย We are already wired! Try and cheer us up.

The Salvation Army certainly are….


You wonder why Star Bucks is struggling?

December 1st, 2008

Visit a Star Bucks in Auckland and you will get some insight.

And you get American Christmas Carols, a warm atmosphere and range of special christmas coffees.

It’s like you’ve stepped into a different world.

New Zealand isn’t the states, it’s not cold here, it’s coming into summer.

How about some local kiwi drinks? with a kiwi feel?

Star Bucks ignorance to adapt to the local market speaks loudly….

Even McDonalds has realised that Kiwi’s appreciate the effort. I suspect its the same in other countries, have you been to Star Bucks overseas, what did you think?



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