In an unexpected move during Super Bowl LX, Liquid I.V. presented a distinctive commercial featuring an ensemble of singing toilets and urinals. This 30-second advertisement, set to a cover of Phil Collins's 'Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)' performed by Ejae, humorously prompted viewers to assess their hydration levels by checking the color of their urine. The company's chief marketing officer, Stacey Andrade-Wells, noted the advertisement's intentional discomfort-inducing nature, which ultimately connects back to the product's purpose in its concluding moments, ensuring the audience understands the rationale behind the singing commodes.
This approach diverges from many health and wellness brands that commonly feature celebrities in their Super Bowl ads. Liquid I.V. deliberately chose a creative concept over famous faces to avoid celebrity fatigue and misattribution, a strategy it communicated to its ad agency, Anomaly. While Liquid I.V. makes its Super Bowl commercial debut, its parent company, Unilever, is a seasoned advertiser at the event, having featured brands like Hellmann's and Dove in previous and current Super Bowls. The advertisement navigates the fine line of 'potty humor,' aiming to be memorable and conversation-starting rather than offensive, aligning with the brand's goal of inspiring behavioral change around hydration.
To amplify its message and encourage wider discussion, Liquid I.V. is extending its campaign beyond the television screen. The brand is placing additional advertisements in bar bathrooms in San Francisco, the host city of this year's Super Bowl, and in the home cities of the competing teams, the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots. Furthermore, Liquid I.V. has designated the Monday following the Super Bowl as National Rehydration Day and established a partnership with DoorDash for product delivery. This comprehensive strategy seeks to boost the brand's national awareness and household penetration, aiming to significantly increase its visibility beyond the current figures.
This innovative advertising campaign demonstrates how creativity and a clear message can effectively capture public attention and promote a positive health initiative. By embracing a bold, unconventional approach and focusing on a universal need like hydration, Liquid I.V. not only stands out in a competitive advertising landscape but also subtly encourages individuals to engage in healthier practices. It exemplifies how thoughtful marketing can contribute to societal well-being, fostering awareness and encouraging dialogue around important health topics in an engaging and accessible manner.