Jim Bean "Back To Basics" Food Ad

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Jul 10, 2020
jim-bean-back-to-basics-ad-burgers
This was from a 1990 multi-part magazine ad campaign for Jim Bean whiskey featuring different concepts of "getting back to the basics."

Image Description

The image is a Jim Beam ad from 1990 showcasing a series of sandwiches evolving through the years, starting with a simple hamburger in 1955 and returning to the same hamburger in 1990. Below the timeline of sandwiches, a bottle of Jim Beam whiskey and a glass are displayed with the tagline, "You always come back to the basics."

Positive Aspects

This ad cleverly uses a visual timeline to show the evolution of food trends, humorously suggesting that despite changes, people return to the simplicity of a basic hamburger—paralleling the timeless appeal of Jim Beam whiskey. The minimalist design keeps the focus on the message and the product.

Key Takeaways

  • Timeless Appeal: The ad emphasizes the enduring nature of simple pleasures, like a classic hamburger or a well-crafted whiskey.
  • Visual Storytelling: The chronological sandwich display is an engaging way to convey changes over time, making the ad memorable.
  • Effective Tagline: "You always come back to the basics" reinforces the idea of reliability and classic quality, a perfect match for the Jim Beam brand.

Additional Insights

The ad's humor comes from the exaggerated evolution of sandwiches, poking fun at food fads while highlighting steadfast favorites. It's a reminder that sometimes, returning to basics is more satisfying than following trends—a lesson applicable beyond food and drink.