Cheers, finger’s hovering over “buy” on a new bivi bag so I can see my resolve to cycle it in a day being tested, especially with the pub recommendations!

I’m planning on cycling this in a few weeks, train to Reading then cycle to Bath.

What a div, I’m actually going to Bristol, better not forget on the day 😳

I’m planning on cycling this in a few weeks, train to Reading then cycle to Bath.

there’s a SLIM chance I’ll do it in a day, but more likely I’ll do it over 2 days, probably stopping near Devizes.

To give myself the option I reckon I’ll take me bivi bag and sleeping bag, eat at a pub in the evening, then kip somewhere. Any one know the area and have a suggestion for a suitably sheltered (from people rather than weather) spot?

Branding: could it hold the key to future tobacco reduction policy

Author(s): Eadie, Douglas, Hastings, Gerard, Stead, Martine, MacKintosh, Anne Marie

Citation: Health Education, 1999, vol./is. /3, 0965-4283

Publication Date: 1999

Abstract: The debate surrounding tobacco control has become increasingly polarised as the health and tobacco lobbies seek to influence tobacco policy. In recent times the main focus for debate has been the impact of tobacco advertising on under-age smoking. However, with the proposed ban on tobacco advertising, this paper argues that branding may prove pivotal to re-orienting thinking about how tobacco marketing continues to influence smoking initiation. Marketing theory asserts that creating demand for a product is dependent upon building a strong brand identity that concurs with the needs, values and lifestyles of the consumer. It is hypothesised that branding can function by affecting not only the way people perceive specific tobacco products but also their perceptions of smoking behaviour itself. Using branding to extend the debate in this way provides some useful insights into the role tobacco marketing might play in encouraging young people to start smoking. It is concluded that explanations for smoking initiation can be found, not by attempting to isolate the abilities of tobacco marketing and health policy to persuade young people to adopt one behaviour in favour of the other, but by examining how exposure to competing forces such as these during adolescence may conspire to brand smoking in a way that encourages young people to experiment with cigarettes. It is suggested that more significant advances in reducing smoking rates are likely to depend upon a willingness to confront the fundamental contradictions that are created by such competing forces.

A difference that makes a difference: Young adult smokers’ accounts of cigarette brands and package design

Author(s): Scheffels J.

Citation: Tobacco Control, April 2008, vol./is. 17/2(118-122), 0964-4563 (April 2008)

Publication Date: April 2008

Abstract: Objective: To explore young adult smokers’ construction of meaning and identity In accounts of cigarette brands and cigarette package design, and the processes by which positive associations with a brand may be reinforced and sustained. Methods: Qualitative in-depth interviews with 21 smokers aged 18-23 in Norway, where advertising for tobacco has been banned since 1975. Results: Cigarette brand and cigarette package design appear as an integrated part of young smokers’ constructions of smoker identities, enabling the communication of personal characteristics, social identity and positions in hierarchies of status. Conclusion: Through branding and package design tobacco companies appear to be able to promote their products in a country where advertising is banned, by means of similar principles that make advertising effective: by creating preferences, differentiation and identification.

The influence of branding on adolescent smoking behaviour: Exploring the mediating role of image and attitudes.

Author(s): Grant, Ian C, Hassan, Louise M, Hastings, Gerard B, MacKintosh, Anne Marie, Eadie, Douglas

Citation: International Journal of Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Marketing, August 2008, vol./is. 13/3(275-285), 1465-4520 (Aug 2008)

Publication Date: August 2008

Abstract: 1. This study investigates the continuing effects of tobacco marketing communications in a post advertising era, focusing on the constructs of brand awareness, brand image, attitude formation and intention to smoke by adolescents. 2. A conceptual model is presented, based on 926 respondents from a UK wide study, to assess brand-related interrelationships and influences of peers on adolescents’ attitudes toward smoking and intention to smoke. 3. Results show the strong influence of branding on both attitude and intention, and have implications for government anti-smoking policies specifically in regard to generic packaging and point of sale displays.

How does increasingly plainer cigarette packaging influence adult smokers’ perceptions about brand image? An experimental study.

Author(s): Wakefield, M. A, Germain, D, Durkin, S. J

Citation: Tobacco Control: An International Journal, December 2008, vol./is. 17/6(416-421), 0964-4563 (Dec 2008)

Publication Date: December 2008

Abstract: Background: Cigarette packaging is a key marketing strategy for promoting brand image. Plain packaging has been proposed to limit brand image, but tobacco companies would resist removal of branding design elements. Method: A 3 (brand types) x4 (degree of plain packaging) between-subject experimental design was used, using an internet online method, to expose 813 adult Australian smokers to one randomly selected cigarette pack, after which respondents completed ratings of the pack. Results: Compared with current cigarette packs with full branding, cigarette packs that displayed progressively fewer branding design elements were perceived increasingly unfavourably in terms of smokers’ appraisals of the packs, the smokers who might smoke such packs, and the inferred experience of smoking a cigarette from these packs. For example, cardboard brown packs with the number of enclosed cigarettes displayed on the front of the pack and featuring only the brand name in small standard font at the bottom of the pack face were rated as significantly less attractive and popular than original branded packs. Smokers of these plain packs were rated as significantly less trendy/stylish, less sociable/outgoing and less mature than smokers of the original pack. Compared with original packs, smokers inferred that cigarettes from these plain packs would be less rich in tobacco, less satisfying and of lower quality tobacco. Conclusion: Plain packaging policies that remove most brand design elements are likely to be most successful in removing cigarette brand image associations.

Effects of dissuasive packaging on young adult smokers.

Author(s): Hoek J, Wong C, Gendall P, Louviere J, Cong K

Citation: Tobacco Control, May 2011, vol./is. 20/3(183-8), 0964-4563;1468-3318 (2011 May)

Publication Date: May 2011

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Tobacco industry documents illustrate how packaging promotes smoking experimentation and reinforces existing smokers’ behaviour. Plain packaging reduces the perceived attractiveness of smoking and creates an opportunity to introduce larger pictorial warnings that could promote cessation-linked behaviours. However, little is known about the effects such a combined policy measure would have on smokers’ behaviour.METHODS: A 3 (warning size) *4 (branding level) plus control (completely plain pack) best-worst experiment was conducted via face-to-face interviews with 292 young adult smokers from a New Zealand provincial city. The Juster Scale was also used to estimate cessation-linked behaviours among participants.RESULTS: Of the 13 options tested, respondents were significantly less likely to choose those featuring fewer branding elements or larger health warnings. Options that featured more branding elements were still preferred even when they also featured a 50% health warning, but were significantly less likely to be chosen when they featured a 75% warning. Comparison of a control pack representing the status quo (branded with 30% front of pack warning) and a plain pack (with a 75% warning) revealed the latter would be significantly more likely to elicit cessation-related behaviours.CONCLUSIONS: Plain packs that feature large graphic health warnings are significantly more likely to promote cessation among young adult smokers than fully or partially branded packs. The findings support the introduction of plain packaging and suggest use of unbranded package space to feature larger health warnings would further promote cessation.

Cigarette package design: opportunities for disease prevention.

Author(s): Difranza JR, Clark DM, Pollay RW

Citation: Tobacco Induced Diseases, 2002, vol./is. 1/2(97-109), 1617-9625;1617-9625 (2002)

Publication Date: 2002

Abstract: ABSTRACT : OBJECTIVE : To learn how cigarette packages are designed and to determine to what extent cigarette packages are designed to target children. METHODS : A computer search was made of all Internet websites that post tobacco industry documents using the search terms: packaging, package design, package study, box design, logo, trademark and design study. All documents were retrieved electronically and analyzed by the first author for recurrent themes. DATA SYNTHESIS : Cigarette manufacturers devote a great deal of attention and expense to package design because it is central to their efforts to create brand images. Colors, graphic elements, proportioning, texture, materials and typography are tested and used in various combinations to create the desired product and user images. Designs help to create the perceived product attributes and project a personality image of the user with the intent of fulfilling the psychological needs of the targeted type of smoker. The communication of these images and attributes is conducted through conscious and subliminal processes. Extensive testing is conducted using a variety of qualitative and quantitative research techniques. CONCLUSION : The promotion of tobacco products through appealing imagery cannot be stopped without regulating the package design. The same marketing research techniques used by the tobacco companies can be used to design generic packaging and more effective warning labels targeted at specific consumers.

Declines in tobacco brand recognition and ever-smoking rates among young children following restrictions on tobacco advertisements in Hong Kong

Author(s): Fielding R., Chee Y.Y., Choi K.M., Chu T.K., Kato K., Lam S.K., Sin K.L., Tang K.T., Wong H.M., Wong K.M.

Citation: Journal of Public Health, March 2004, vol./is. 26/1(24-30), 1741-3842 (Mar 2004)

Publication Date: March 2004

Abstract: Background: We compared the recognition of tobacco brands and ever-smoking rates in young children before (1991) and after (2001) the implementation of cigarette advertising restrictions in Hong Kong and identified continuing sources of tobacco promotion exposure. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 824 primary school children aged from 8 to 11 (Primary classes 3-4) living in two Hong Kong districts was carried out using self-completed questionnaires examining smoking behaviour and recognition of names and logos from 18 tobacco, food, drink and other brands common in Hong Kong. Results: Ever-smoking prevalence in 2001 was 3.8 per cent (1991, 7.8 per cent). Tobacco brand recognition rates ranged from 5.3 per cent (Viceroy name) to 72.8 per cent (Viceroy logo). Compared with 1991, in 2001 never-smoker children recognized fewer tobacco brand names and logos: Marlboro logo recognition rate fell by 55.3 per cent. Similar declines were also seen in ever-smoker children, with recognition of the Marlboro logo decreasing 48 per cent. Recognition rates declined amongst both boys and girls. Children from non-smoking families constituted 51 per cent (426) of the sample, whereas 34.5 per cent (284), 8.5 per cent (70), 1.7 per cent (14) and 4.4 per cent (36) of the children had one, two, three or more than three smoking family members at home, respectively. Tobacco brand recognition rates and ever-smoking prevalence were significantly higher among children with smoking family members compared with those without. Among 12 possible sources of exposure to cigarette brand names and logos, retail stalls (75.5 per cent; 622), indirect advertisements (71.5 per cent; 589) and magazines (65.3 per cent; 538) were ranked the most common. Conclusion: Advertising restrictions in Hong Kong have effectively decreased primary-age children’s recognition of tobacco branding. However, these children remain vulnerable to branding, mostly through exposure from family smokers, point-of-sale tobacco advertisement and occasional promotions. Action to curb these is now required.

Perceptions of tobacco advertising and marketing that might lead to smoking initiation among Chinese high school girls.

Author(s): Ho, Michael G, Shi, Yu, Ma, Shaojun, Novotny, Thomas E

Citation: Tobacco Control: An International Journal, October 2007, vol./is. 16/5(359-360), 0964-4563 (Oct 2007)

Publication Date: October 2007

Abstract: Presented here is a pilot study on susceptibility among young women in Beijing. Five focus groups of high school girls aged 16-19 years (n=27) was assembled during summer 2006. Thirteen subjects reported smoking experience (smoked 100 lifetime cigarettes or smoked in past 30 days). In-depth questions identified themes such as knowledge of brand identities, influences and information about smoking among women. Explicit cigarette advertisements are banned by law, but subjects noted the appearance of cigarette brand logos on television. They also were aware that transnational tobacco companies (TTCs) manufacture most female brand cigarettes. Many subjects were aware that cigarettes were advertised at sporting events. Many subjects’ favourite actors and singers are smokers, and they reported that they believe these celebrities are more glamorous and elegant when they smoke. The study suggests that concepts of femininity, independence, style and sophistication are recognised by young women in China as part of the already embedded smoking culture.

Children and youth perceive smoking messages in an unbranded advertisement from a NIKE marketing campaign: A cluster randomised controlled trial

Author(s): Auger N., Daniel M., Knauper B., Raynault M., Pless B.

Citation: BMC Pediatrics, April 2011, vol./is. 11/, 1471-2431 (08 Apr 2011)

Publication Date: April 2011

Abstract: Background: How youth perceive marketing messages in sports is poorly understood. We evaluated whether youth perceive that the imagery of a specific sports marketing advertisement contained smoking-related messages.Methods: Twenty grade 7 to 11 classes (397 students) from two high schools in Montreal, Canada were recruited to participate in a cluster randomised single-blind controlled trial. Classes were randomly allocated to either a NIKE advertisement containing the phrase ‘LIGHT IT UP’ (n = 205) or to a neutral advertisement with smoking imagery reduced and the phrase replaced by ‘GO FOR IT’ (n = 192). The NIKE logo was removed from both advertisements. Students responded in class to a questionnaire asking open-ended questions about their perception of the messages in the ad. Reports relating to the appearance and text of the ad, and the product being promoted were evaluated.Results: Relative to the neutral ad, more students reported that the phrase ‘LIGHT IT UP’ was smoking-related (37.6% vs. 0.5%) and that other parts of the ad resembled smoking-related products (50.7% vs. 10.4%). The relative risk of students reporting that the NIKE ad promoted cigarettes was 4.41 (95% confidence interval: 2.64-7.36; P < 0.001).Conclusions: The unbranded imagery of an advertisement in a specific campaign aimed at promoting NIKE hockey products appears to have contained smoking-related messages. This particular marketing campaign may have promoted smoking. This suggests that the regulation of marketing to youth may need to be more tightly controlled. 2011 Auger et a

BTW tj I’m not having a go at you, just there does seem to be quite a bit of evidence. I pulled that lot from healthcare databases so you should know its from ok sources.

Obviously the egg stuff was a laugh but smoking stuffs interesting.

Cool, I’m on me phone on the train but I’ll have a look later.

If you hang on a bit longer i can look up some public health studies on the effect of cigarette branding and marketing if you want?

I’m sorry yunki but if you reckon an article from a peer reviewed journal about the museum of food failure is tosh then I don’t know what evidence will convince you.

Sorry got to stop, need a snack. Don’t know what to have though 🙁

Drivable Egg Campaign to Arrive in a VW Beetle.
Author(s): Rodrigues, Tanya

Citation: San Diego Business Journal, 21 August 2000, vol./is. 21/34(8-), 87506890

Publication Date: 21 August 2000

Abstract: Presents news items related to mass media and marketing in California as of August 21, 2000. Plans of launching a statewide advertising drive to increase the reportedly low egg consumption among local Latinos; Election of Corsi Chapman Warwick owner Marc Corsi to the post of chairman of the Western Region of the American Advertising Federation.

Museum of food failure.
Author(s): Grapentine, Terry

Citation: Marketing Research, 01 June 2006, vol./is. 18/2(4-), 10408460

Publication Date: 01 June 2006

Abstract: The article reports on the NewProductWorks museum collection of Ann Arbor (Mich.). The museum is devoted to supermarket products that failed to capture public attention. Among the losers are eggs meant to be cooked in a toaster, cucumber-scented deodorant, chocolate french fries and “Hey! There’s a Monster in My Room” air freshener, meant to scare ghouls out of childrens’ rooms. The article speculates on the marketing research that supported these products. The museum was created by Robert and Jean McMath.

Fowl Play.
Author(s): Schmall, Emily

Citation: Forbes, 12 November 2007, vol./is. 180/10(96-97), 00156914

Publication Date: 12 November 2007

Abstract: The article discusses the marketing efforts of egg producer The Country Hen, whose owner, George S. Bass, made claims about the nutritional value of the eggs that were unsupported by scientific research. U.S. regulations prohibited bass from placing unfounded claims on egg cartons, but Constitutional free speech allowed him to publish newsletters making the claims.

Ad Agencies, Clients Increase Marketing During Down Cycle.
Author(s): Gaudio, Thomas

Citation: njbiz, 15 May 2008, vol./is. 21/20(21-), 15404161

Publication Date: 15 May 2008

Abstract: The article discusses the increase in marketing of New Jersey advertising agencies and clients in the face of the U.S. economic downturn. Sigma Group president Shannon Morris says that they have increased the number of hours spent marketing by employees to 60% in 2008. Eggz Inc. president Paul Autodore says that clients in all industries are cautious about their marketing investments. InGroup Inc. president Marlene Bauer Pissot states that they have increased marketing budget by 20% in 2008.

Marketing theory and practice: The case of the Egg Card.
Author(s): Madichie, Nnamdi O

Citation: Marketing Intelligence & Planning, 2009, vol./is. 27/7(926-944), 0263-4503 (2009)

Publication Date: 2009

Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to review Egg Card’s current marketing strategy, drawing on the recent media flurry over its disaffected customers. The paper also seeks to highlight the extent of Egg Card’s contribution to the gap between marketing theory (i.e. marketing as an academic discipline) and practice (marketing in the real world) and to point out the implications this might have for the future of marketing as an academic discipline. Design/methodology/approach: The paper adopts a qualitative content analysis of academic, media, and other official company reports on the development of the gaps between marketing theory and practice. Findings: Egg Card’s (post-acquisition by Citigroup since May 2007) first-mover response to the global economic downturn and ensuing credit-crunch epitomizes the entrenched disconnection between how marketing is taught as an academic discipline and how it plays out in the real world. Originality/value: The paper attempts to introduce a new concept – Jaymarketer – into the marketing literature in the hope that academics will become able to reconnect with the real world of marketing. Hopefully, this will set the stage for further research on how to bridge the dichotomies between marketing theory and marketing practice. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) (journal abstract)

just to keep things going, hang on a minute

Ok off to do some work now, feel free to use those abstracts as you wish 😀

Oh, they’re from Embase, Medline, PsychInfo, Cinahl so should be reasonable.

The implicit conditioning of consumer attitudes: Logo substitution effect.
Author(s): Ohme, Rafal K

Citation: Polish Psychological Bulletin, 2001, vol./is. 32/1(71-78), 0079-2993;1641-7844 (2001)

Publication Date: 2001

Abstract: The notion of the unawareness of influence posits that people are often not aware of the determining influences on their judgments or subjective feeling states. This led to research on implicit consumer behavior, an area of the applied psychology of unconscious processes. This study compares explicit and implicit processes of attitude conditioning toward Carrefour supermarkets and McDonald’s fast food bars. It introduces an idea of a logo substitute: a formally similar graphic image that conserves features of the original logo, but otherwise is not consciously recognized or identified as the logo. The experimental settings drew an operational distinction between explicit and implicit influences. It was established that replacing of the original logo with its substitute was an effective method of attitude change in consumers. Moreover, the studies raised interesting observations: (1) implicit persuasion manipulation resulted in significant attitude change, while no such findings were found in the explicit condition; and (2) more significant changes were produced by the logo substitute of a less known Carrefour logo. The general findings are discussed in terms of the model of central and peripheral persuasion extended to visual persuasive stimuli.

isual and Verbal Communication in the Design of Eco-Label for Green Consumer Products.
Author(s): Tang, Esther, Fryxell, Gerald E, Chow, Clement S. F

Citation: Journal of International Consumer Marketing, 2004, vol./is. 16/4(85-105), 0896-1530;1528-7068 (2004)

Publication Date: 2004

Abstract: Eco-labels are meant to convey information to consumers about the environmental implications of purchasing the product, so that consumers who care about such effects can express their desires in the market. Whereas all eco-label designs utilize a visual logo, only a few of them include verbal message within the label to communicate the main reason why the label is granted. As such, the purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of visual and verbal communication in eco-label designs on consumers purchasing behavior. Using an experimental design with homogenous sample, participants were randomly assigned one of four possible treatments in a 2 x 2 design with manipulations of both visual and verbal communication cues within a simulated web-based shopping experience. It was found that both the visual and verbal communication had significant individual and additive effects on the purchase of the designated products.

The mere exposure effect and product choice: A field experiment.
Author(s): Bluher, Romy, Pahl, Sabine

Citation: Zeitschrift fur Sozialpsychologie, September 2007, vol./is. 38/3(209-215), 0044-3514 (Sep 2007)

Publication Date: September 2007

Abstract: The “mere exposure” effect denotes positive attitude change toward a stimulus after repeated exposure to that stimulus (Zajonc, 1968). The present study investigated whether mere exposure also affects actual choice behavior. Participants named landmarks shown on photographs. In two experimental conditions, the photographs also unobtrusively showed posters depicting the logo of either a lemon candy or a peppermint candy; in a control condition, no posters were shown. Later participants could choose between the two products as a reward. Participants who had been exposed to the lemon logo and control participants chose the lemon candy more frequently, whereas for participants who had been exposed to the peppermint logo, this preference reversed: they chose the peppermint candy more frequently. Theoretical and applied implications are discussed.

What Does Your Logo Really Tell Consumers?
Citation: Harvard Business Review, 01 December 2010, vol./is. 88/12(30-), 00178012

Publication Date: 01 December 2010

Abstract: The article discusses corporate logos. Research by Niels van Quaquebeke and Steffen Giessner of the Rotterdam School of Management found that people are more likely to assume ethical behavior on the part of firms with symmetrical logos than they are with companies whose logos are asymmetrical. It is noted that retailer Gap Inc. withdrew a redesigned logo that met with much criticism.

Brand name logo recognition of fast food and healthy food among children.

Citation:Journal of Community Health, Feb 2009, vol./is. 34/1(73-8), 0094-5145;0094-5145 (2009 Feb

Author(s):Arredondo E,Castaneda D,Elder JP,Slymen D,Dozier D

Abstract:The fast food industry has been increasingly criticized for creating brand loyalty in young consumers. Food marketers are well versed in reaching children and youth given the importance of brand loyalty on future food purchasing behavior. In addition, food marketers are increasingly targeting the Hispanic population given their growing spending power. The fast food industry is among the leaders in reaching youth and ethnic minorities through their marketing efforts. The primary objective of this study was to determine if young children recognized fast food restaurant logos at a higher rate than other food brands. Methods Children (n = 155; 53% male; 87% Hispanic) ages 4-8 years were recruited from elementary schools and asked to match 10 logo cards to products depicted on a game board. Parents completed a survey assessing demographic and psychosocial characteristics associated with a healthy lifestyle in the home. Results Older children and children who were overweight were significantly more likely to recognize fast food restaurant logos than other food logos. Moreover, parents’ psychosocial and socio-demographic characteristics were associated with the type of food logo recognized by the children. Conclusions Children’s high recognition of fast food restaurant logos may reflect greater exposure to fast food advertisements. Families’ socio-demographic characteristics play a role in children’s recognition of food logos.

Consumer preference for logo designs: Visual design and meaning.
Citation:Dissertation Abstracts International Section A: Humanities and Social Sciences, 10 1997, vol./is. 58/4-A(1372), 0419-4209 (Oct 1997)
Author(s):Pimentel, Ronald Ward

Abstract:Logo designs provide a quick visual shorthand for all the meaning, associations, and equity associated with a brand. Virtually all major companies utilize logos, but there is little theory-based research regarding logo design published in marketing and consumer behavior journals. Related research from psychology regarding preference for visual images has generally used special stimuli created for the laboratory that do not carry the meaning that logos acquire in the markerplace and consequently have very limited generalizability. This study seeks to begin to fill the void by examining preference for actual, familiar logo designs. An improved understanding of preference for logo designs can be a great advantage to a company considering a logo design change. The costs involved in such a change can be enormous. Beyond the cost of the services of graphic designers, a change in logo design incurs the cost of changing everything that displays the logo, and any lost sales that may result if the new design is ineffective in some way. The equity of the brand may be connected to the logo design, so a change in the design of the logo may have long-term implications. Many logos have evolved over the years through successive changes to keep the designs from becoming outdated. This study examined theoretical bases for such activity. According to adaptation-level theory (McClelland et al. 1953), individuals become adapted to an object or image due to experience with it. Slight changes to this adaptation level result in increased preference while drastic changes result in decreased preference. These effects are represented by the distinctive butterfly curve. The current study developed a technique that allows for differentiation of visual designs, indicating the degree of change. This was used to test whether adaptation-level theory applies to familiar logo designs. The results indicate a general preference for no changes in familiar logo designs. While practitioners make changes i (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)

The marketer’s prismatic palette: Essays on the importance of color in marketing with implications for brand personality

Citation:Dissertation Abstracts International Section A: Humanities and Social Sciences, 2011, vol./is. 71/7-A(2549), 0419-4209 (2011)

Author(s):Labrecque, Lauren Isabelle

Abstract:Color is important not only in terms of aesthetics but also because it carries meanings that can influence affect and behavior. People’s daily experiences are saturated with color, however scant research focuses on the influence of color in marketing. Essay one of this dissertation offers a conceptual model that provides a framework for understanding how people experience and create meaning from color in order to contribute to a better understanding of how color affects consumer behavior. Additionally, it provides a review of color research in different areas of marketing. This review brings attention to areas where more empirical research is needed and also provides research questions and directions for future study. Essay two examines the role that color plays in branding and fills a major gap in the brand personality literature by empirically testing how nonverbal elements contribute to the establishment of and shape brand personality (Batra, Lehmann, and Singh 1993). In addition, this essay fills a gap in the branding literature by examining the brand-building qualities of logos (Keller and Lehmann 2006). Based on color theory and previous empirical work in psychology and marketing, the relationship between color and brand personality (Aaker 1997), and color and brand equity is tested in a series of five studies. Study 1 demonstrates the link between hue and brand personality using two fictitious and two real brand logos. Study 2 further examines the relationship by focusing on the other two components of color, saturation and value, using four fictitious brand logos. Together, these studies show that all three components affect brand personality perceptions. Study 3 offers replication and extends these findings to package design. Study 4 shows the incremental value of color in logo design, using one hundred real brand logos. Results show that color is an important driver of brand personality and that the combination of logo design and color influences likability and familiarity. Lastly, the relationship between color and brand equity is examined in Study 5. The results provide evidence of product category color norms and reveal that while color differentiation may be helpful for certain categories, it may hurt others. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved)

Analgesic effects of branding in treatment of headaches

Citation:British Medical Journal, 1981, vol./is. 282/6276(1576-1578), 0959-8146

Author(s):Branthwaite A.,Cooper P.

Abstract:The effect of branding – that is, labelling and marketing – of a well-known proprietary analgesic used to treat headaches was studied in a sample of women given a branded or unbranded form with either an inert or an active formulation. The sample was also divided according to whether the subjects were regular users of the brand or users of other brands. The findings showed that branded tablets were overall significantly more effective than unbranded tablets in relieving headaches. Differential effects were observed: the effects of branding were more noticeable one hour after the tablets were taken compared with 30 minutes; in the women given the placebo; and in the users of the brand compared with the users of other brands. It is hypothesized that these effects are due to increased confidence in obtaining relief with a well-known brand, and that branding has an analgesic effect that interacts with the analgesic effects of placebos and active ingredients.

Ok TJ, heres another one for you, in true STW style it refers to NAzis (let’s be clear this is not something I agree with, it’s a ridiculous example to show TJ something.

Do these look the same to you? They are just a logo and words in a font. I think there is a different meaning to them.

please don’t think I’m having a go, because I’m not.

What I’m trying to say is that it’s pretty difficult in our society to not be exposed to branding/marketing/ whatever and not be influenced. However you and many others ACTIVELY (because it is so effective) look past it.

That sound fair?

Don’t know if this lot is correct, but if it is it seems fair:

You only have to take a look at the sentencing history for “Violent Disorder”, coupled with Mr Gilmour’s nature in court (allegedly giggling at scenes of his actions), tempered by the fact he pleaded guilty and apologised for certain (but not all) actions.

Attacking a police officer by throwing bottles – 10 months
Encouraging others to KILL police officers – 12 months
Revenge attack on property, with “attack” of person, person of good character – 18 months
Taking part in a riot, repetitive attacks on riot police with state of mind to “re-arm” with projectiles, second offence – 3 years

16 months, given that Charlie doesn’t exactly seem remorseful of the main elements of the charge (which is the threat, as little as it was in reality, he put members of family of the head of state under, and the encouragement for others to break the law), seems pretty much bang on all things considered, doesn’t it?

Now, perhaps the sentencing range (maximum 5 years) for this offence is too harsh, that’d be a fair stance to take.

But to call this sentencing “political” or “outrageous” is to just not have bothered to check what is normal in sentencing this kind of offence, as it stands in law.

Can’t say I’m that bothered either way really.

Cheers Dez, will check it out later.

fair enough Dez – be interested in the Dubstep link if you’ve got it.

I really like it, bit worried that it might be the start of 90’s nostalgia for me 🙁

But I guess as I’m a fan of fugazi and the Wu, what’s not to like!

Not especially cool, but interesting: stretching doesn’t stop you from feeling sore info here

Stubbed my toe, my boss sent me down to A&E coz she was fed up of me hobbling around. (I work in a hospital).

Waited for ages, they examined it, said it was probably broken, and they could strap it to the toe next to it, but then my foot wouldn’t fit in my shoe. I didn’t bother.

Ibuprofen gel helped. Running on it didn’t.