🎥 Movies, Toast, and TikTok—Oh My!

No time to read? Listen on the go.

Hey Nerds! 👋🏽 This week’s edition is packed with insights to keep your marketing fresh and effective. From boosting strategy diversity to uncovering marketing myths, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get into it!

1. Trending Now: Movie Theaters Roll Out the Red Carpet for Audiences in 2025

As we approach 2025, movie theaters are pulling out all the stops to entice audiences back to the big screen. Even though major hits like Barbie and Inside Out 2 have brought in huge box office numbers, movie theater attendance hasn’t fully bounced back to pre-pandemic levels. The first months of 2024 only saw a 1% growth compared to the previous year, with attendance still lagging behind 2019 by as much as 38%.

To attract more moviegoers, theaters are making the experience bigger and better. Companies like Cinemark are using creative marketing, offering exclusive deals, themed food and drink options, and fun merch like collectible popcorn buckets. These efforts aren’t just about movies—they’re about making theaters the ultimate hangout for everything from date nights to family outings.

And there’s hope on the horizon: More movies are set to release in 2025, which means more chances to lure audiences back. By creating special events, trailers, and memorabilia, theaters are working hard to keep the magic of the big screen alive.

2. Nerd Tip of the Week: Diversify Your Marketing Strategy

Reaching today’s audiences means thinking beyond the usual platforms. Start by researching your ideal customer and their favorite hangouts. Look into sub-channels like YouTube, niche social media groups, or industry-specific forums.

For example, connecting with a gaming community on Discord or showcasing products in cooking-focused Facebook groups can help you break through the noise. Diversifying your marketing plan is like planting seeds in different gardens—each one gives your brand a new way to grow.

3. Campaign Spotlight: MMB’s "Toaster Swatches" for Revolution Cooking

This clever campaign uses color swatches to highlight the perfect toast shades their smart toaster can achieve. The print ads feature toast slices in a gradient from light to dark, making the product’s value crystal clear.

It’s simple, eye-catching, and drives home the toaster’s unique appeal. Plus, it’s been a hit both in stores and online—proof that great visual storytelling can turn a mundane product into a must-have.

4. Nerds' Toolkit: Semrush

If you need to level up your digital strategy Semrush is a one-stop marketing platform with tools for SEO, competitor analysis, and content planning.

It’s especially useful for spotting opportunities to outrank your competitors or optimize your ad campaigns. Whether you're new to marketing or a seasoned pro, Semrush can help you get results.

Explore: Semrush

5. Marketing Myth Buster: “Marketing Is Only About Selling”

Think marketing is just about closing the deal? Think again. Marketing also builds brand awareness, forges customer relationships, and fosters loyalty.

The best strategies focus on delivering value—whether it’s through helpful content, memorable experiences, or exceptional service. Sales are the byproduct of great marketing, not the sole purpose.

6. Just for Fun: Laughing at Marketing on TikTok

Need a chuckle? Check out Maddie Marketing on TikTok (@maddiemarketing). Her videos hilariously poke fun at trends and marketing quirks that every Nerd will relate to.

A good laugh might just inspire your next creative breakthrough!

@maddiemarketing

time to level up 📈😎 #ad @videeo.live #ecommerce #marketing #liveselling

That’s all for this week, Nerds! 🤓

Remember to keep it creative, stay curious, and never stop learning. Catch you next week! 🎯

PS: Don’t forget to share The Ad Nerd with a friend who needs some quick marketing magic!