Why do we need to study old advertisements?
Answers
Explanation:
Old, iconic campaigns hold learnings
Recently, I was called upon to inaugurate an exhibition on vintage Tata advertising campaigns, at the Tata Central Archives in Pune. The exhibition showcased a wide range of advertisements released by Tata brands, dating back to over 100 years ago. I found the voyage most instructive.
First, a word about the oldest known Tata advertisement. This appears to have been published in a Mumbai newspaper in 1903, when Taj Mahal Palace Hotel first opened its doors in Mumbai. It simply said – “Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Bombay. Open 1st December, 1903. All Latest Comforts. Moderate Charges. From Rs. 6 upwards.” It was signed by Louis Gapp, Manager of the hotel. I was delighted to note the reference to “moderate charges” — clearly, Indian consumers were as value-conscious in those days, as they