What we read this week: March 17
“Don’t Let Daylight Saving Time Ruin Your Sleep” (The New York Times)
Takeaways:
Some critics suggest the practice of daylight saving time (DST) may need reevaluation in the context of contemporary lifestyles and economic structures.
Primarily, some worry about the impacts on health, fitness & productivity.
For those struggling to adapt, the article recommends gradually shifting your sleep and meal schedules ahead of the time change, as well as prioritizing time outside, limiting coffee & caffeine and spending time with family & friends to prevent low mood.
“When Corporate Rebranding Goes Wrong” (The New York Times)
Takeaways:
Aberdeen’s vowel-dropping rebrand was meant to appear modern but was widely mocked, showing the risks of chasing fleeting trends in branding.
Financial firms specifically should prioritize trust and stability over trying to look "cool," as customers look for credibility from these institutions.
Brands like Accenture and Mondelēz thrived post-rebrand, others like Tropicana and Gap quickly changed course after public backlash.
“Are fan frenzies outside of fashion shows good business or a nuisance?” (VOGUE Business)
Takeaways:
Fan gatherings outside fashion shows, hoping to see celebrities like K-pop stars, create chaotic environments that can disrupt event proceedings.
Despite the chaos, brands value the extensive reach and engagement these celebrities bring, particularly in East and Southeast Asian markets.
The presence of passionate fans enhances brand visibility and media impact, making the disorder a worthwhile trade-off for increased exposure.
“PSA: Influencers Are NOT Journalists” (Dahvi Shira Substack)
Takeaways:
Reality TV star & comedian Hannah Berner’s on-carpet remarks to Megan Thee Stallion implied her music incites violence, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and drawing widespread criticism.
Red carpet interviews require trained professionals who ask thoughtful questions and let celebrities finish their thoughts, rather than influencers prioritizing their own presence.
Hosting live interviews is a difficult skill that requires experience, and many influencers lack the experience & training to handle it appropriately.
“Teens Are Forgoing a Classic Rite of Passage” (The Atlantic)
Takeaways:
There's a notable decline in romantic relationships among teenagers, with only 56% of GenZ adults experiencing a romantic relationship during their teen years, compared to 76% of Gen X’ers and 78% of Baby Boomers.
Fear of vulnerability & prolonged transitions into adulthood, contribute to a stronger emphasis on friendships and individual pursuits.
While romantic experiences can aid in personal growth and social skill development, strong friendships also play a crucial role in fostering these skills and contributing to future relationship satisfaction.
“Women’s Soccer League Signs Sponsorship With ‘Gen Z Whisperer’ Alex Cooper” (The Wall Street Journal)
Takeaways:
The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) has secured a season-long sponsorship deal with Alex Cooper's beverage brand, Unwell Hydration.
Alex Cooper, renowned for her podcast "Call Her Daddy," has a significant following among Gen Z, making this partnership a strategic move for engaging younger audiences in women’s sports.
This collaboration exemplifies the growing trend of aligning sports organizations with influencers to expand reach and appeal to diverse demographics. (Cooper, who played soccer at Boston University, also hosted interactive "Watch with Alex Cooper" parties on Peacock during the 2024 Paris Olympics)
“Why Is Unilever’s CEO Fernando Fernandez Investing In Influencers?” (Forbes)
Takeaways:
Unilever's CEO, Fernando Fernandez, plans to increase spending on social media influencers to mitigate consumer distrust of corporate branding.
The company will shift to a social media-first advertising model, raising its investment on these platforms from 30% to 50% of their total advertising budget.
This strategy aims to leverage influencers' authenticity and relatability to effectively engage consumers, especially in key markets like the US and India.
“30 Charts That Show How COVID Changed Everything” (The New York Times)
Takeaways
Even five years post-pandemic, many individuals remain reluctant to return to pre-COVID social habits, indicating lasting cultural shifts.
The pandemic accelerated the shift to online shopping, leading to a decline in brick-and-mortar retail.
Specific sectors like hospitality were impacted the most, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability. (i.e. Many restaurants embraced takeout models & sourcing locally, while hospitality workers transitioned to more stable careers)
“‘We are beyond fashion’: How Birkenstock got back in step post-IPO” (VOGUE)
Takeaways
Birkenstock CEO Oliver Reichert emphasizes long-term vision over short-term market reactions & avoids chasing trends.
Collaborations with high-profile fashion brands like Dior, Staud and Manolo Blahnik and exploration of new product categories have kept Birkenstock relevant.
The company is investing in direct-to-consumer channels and retail expansion, particularly in the US and Asia, with aims to strengthen customer relationships and brand presence in these key markets.
Takeaways
Survivor’s casting of Mitch Guerra, the first participant with a stutter, reflects a broader cultural shift towards inclusivity and representation in media.
By embracing diversity and inclusivity, media franchises like "Survivor" can broaden their appeal and attract a wider audience.
Probst’s question to Guerra provided widespread education on how to have a conversation with someone who stutters and, more broadly, gave an example of how to interact with people with disabilities.
Following the media outlets you want to be featured in helps you understand what their contacts are looking for. And the best part? This is something anyone can do without hiring professional support.
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