2 people clinking beer bottles together in photo shoot image

2019 Superbowl

The Budweiser Clydesdales Super Bowl return has fans and marketers alike buzzing with excitement. While the 2019 Super Bowl was a tough watch for Saints fans here in New Orleans, one thing worth tuning in for was the return of one of the most iconic brand symbols in advertising history. Some New Orleans fans even planned a parade during the game, but for those who watched, the Budweiser Clydesdales did not disappoint.

Why the Budweiser Clydesdales Super Bowl Ad Always Works

After ditching the feathered horses the year before in favor of a more socially conscious commercial, Budweiser brought back the stars of their advertising legacy. They released a ten second teaser of the Clydesdales strutting with the text “Guess who’s back.” However, to understand why this works so well, you have to understand the history behind them.
The Budweiser Clydesdales made their first ever appearance on April 7th, 1933. They were a gift from August A. Busch Jr. and Adolphus Busch to their father in celebration of the end of Prohibition. Since then they have appeared in Presidential inaugurations and become one of the most recognizable brand symbols in American culture.

The Message Behind the Commercial

In addition to the nostalgia factor, the 2019 Budweiser Clydesdales Super Bowl ad carried a powerful message about sustainable energy. With Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” playing in the background, Budweiser used the iconic imagery of the Clydesdales to advocate for wind powered brewing. Therefore, the ad worked on two levels at once, brand recognition and social responsibility.
Ricardo Marques, VP of marketing at Anheuser-Busch, said the campaign was intended to highlight their commitment to brewing with renewable electricity. Furthermore, Budweiser had launched public global sustainability goals over a year prior and used the Super Bowl stage to reinforce that commitment to millions of viewers.

What Brands Can Learn From This

Having a commercial during the Super Bowl is one of the most powerful exposure opportunities in advertising. In fact, many viewers tune in specifically for the commercials. Budweiser’s approach is a masterclass in brand storytelling, using familiar imagery to deliver a fresh and meaningful message.
Here at Berning Marketing and Productions, we know how to create and produce powerful video production and marketing campaigns for our clients. Whether it is showcasing your core beliefs or creating an entertaining and memorable ad, there is no other marketing and production agency in Louisiana that will take your brand as far as we can. Contact us today to get started.