Avis “We’re only Number 2” Ad Campaign

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This “reverse psychology” style ad campaign from Avis did a fun judo-move and turned their “being only No. 2” status into the reason you SHOULD rent a car from them!  They did this in response to Hertz having an ad campaign showing how they’re #1. This reminds me of a funny billboard David Letterman took out in response to Jay Leno’s #1 billboard 😂
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Image Description

The image features an Avis advertisement with the bold headline: "Avis can’t afford half-empty gas tanks." It highlights how being number two motivates them to try harder, ensuring exceptional service like full gas tanks and well-maintained cars.

Positive Aspects

This ad cleverly flips a perceived weakness into a strength. By embracing their second-place status, Avis communicates a strong commitment to quality, which can resonate with customers who value attentive service. The bold, straightforward text captures attention and effectively conveys the message.

Key Takeaways

  • Reverse Psychology Marketing: Avis turns their second-place status into a compelling reason to choose them, showing that they try harder to impress customers.
  • Competitive Response: The campaign was a direct response to Hertz's claim of being number one, showcasing a smart marketing tactic.
  • Clear Messaging: The ad’s simplicity and clarity make it memorable and effective in communicating the brand’s dedication to quality service.

Additional Insights

This reminds me of how underdog stories in marketing often resonate with audiences. People love rooting for the "little guy" who’s willing to go the extra mile. Similarly, the David Letterman billboard ad poking fun at Jay Leno adds a humorous twist, showing that sometimes being number three (or two) can be quite advantageous if played right!

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