Top PR Moments of 2020
While 2020 was certainly one for the books, the year’s challenges pushed professional communicators to stretch their creativity, harness opportunity and find the silver linings. We’re always impressed with our industry peers, but this year, they really took it up a notch. Read on for the Three Box team’s favorite PR moments of 2020!
AMANDA HILL: FOUR SEASONS TOTAL LANDSCAPING
Photo courtesy of NPR
Regardless of political affiliation, I thought Four Seasons Total Landscaping handled their 15 minutes of fame cleverly after the Presidential Election. The location may have been odd for President Trump's post-race news conference, but they embraced the new notoriety by making and selling witty (and non-offensive) merchandise and hosting a socially-distanced run to benefit a local Philadelphia nonprofit. While some could have made fun of them for being "the other Four Seasons," they embraced the situation and made the most of it. After a taxing election year, we all could use a little levity.
CHRISTI MATTHYS: NIKE
One of my favorite campaigns from this year was Nike’s "You Can't Stop Us" because of its message of resilience and inclusivity during a time when we needed it most. It combined powerful visuals and messaging to hit all the feels.
ASHTON BROWN: MATCH.COM
2020 brought out the creativity in tons of brands, but my most recent favorite is easily "Match Made in Hell" from Match.com, which depicts Satan finding love with a girl named... 2020.
Check out the original ad (written by actor Ryan Reynolds), along with custom dating profiles for Satan and 2020 on Match.com. (Her relationship status: Single because the wedding was cancelled. His biggest regret: Going down to Georgia).
TEDDI CLIETT: FCB HEALTH NETWORK
The concept of social distancing was new (and challenging) for so many, but the Social Distance Squad from FCB Health Network helped break it down like pros.
My favorite part of this video series was its creative use of thought leadership. By passing the mic to kids with Cystic Fibrosis, FCB Health Network spread awareness about two important issues in one campaign.
ALEXIA JOHNSON: UBER
I really liked Uber’s "Thank You for Not Riding" campaign! It was somewhat shocking that the company would be telling people not to ride, especially because that is their main offering, but I love how it played into their larger campaign to "Move What Matters," where they donated face masks and offered free rides for essential workers.
What are some of your favorite PR or marketing moments from 2020? Let us know in the comments!