Ambush wins, ad flops, and a bottle brand with a cult following

Hello there,

We’re back with another set of gems to keep your marketing game sharp. From brand battles on the sidelines to brands that won our hearts, this week is packed with strategy, creativity, and some good ol’ ad strength analysis. Let’s jump in👇

Ambush Marketing: The Art of Hijacking the Spotlight

Sometimes, the best marketing doesn’t pay for a front-row seat—it just shows up uninvited. This piece highlights some of the most clever (and controversial) ambush marketing plays in recent memory. Learn how brands like Beats and Nike managed to steal the limelight without ever officially joining the party.

Google Ads “Ad Strength” Report Just Got a Reality Check

Turns out, most Google ads aren’t quite as “excellent” as we hoped. New research shows the average ad strength rating hovers closer to “average” than “awesome.” If you’re relying on that green bar to guide your creative, this article is a must-read.

All-Time Greats: The Best Marketing Campaigns Ever

Need a little inspo? This roundup covers the most iconic marketing campaigns of all time—from Apple’s “1984” to Nike’s “Just Do It.” A fun look at what makes a campaign unforgettable (and why simplicity often wins).

How Owala Turned Its Water Bottles into a Cult Favorite

Owala may sell hydration—but what they’ve really bottled up is clever, community-driven branding. This case study breaks down their vibrant, humorous, and oddly charming approach to marketing that’s quietly building a fanbase in a crowded category.

That’s a wrap for this week! From bold ambush tactics to brands quietly building cult followings, the marketing world never stops surprising us. We hope these stories sparked a few ideas (or at least gave you a fun scroll break). Got a favorite campaign or case study we should cover next? Just hit reply — we love hearing from you.

Until next time, keep it clever 👀

Signing off,

Team ‘Luru