Attention can t be bought, so brands turn to memes

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-10-05T23:28:18.926Z • Permanent link

Kohl's, the American department store chain, has been using memes to promote its products, a move that has sparked a heated debate about the role of humor in marketing. The company's social media team has been posting funny images and videos featuring its products, often with humorous captions that poke fun at everyday situations. For example, a recent post featured a cartoon character trying to squeeze into a pair of skinny jeans, with the caption "When you finally fit into those skinny jeans you've been eyeing for months". The post quickly went viral, with many users commenting and sharing it with their friends.

Wendy's, the fast-food chain, has also been using memes to reach its target audience. In a recent tweet, the company's account posted a photo of a customer's face Photoshopped onto a picture of a burger, with the caption "No one likes a boss". The tweet was widely shared and sparked a conversation about the role of humor in marketing. Netflix, the streaming service, has also been using memes to promote its content, often featuring humorous images and videos that poke fun at popular TV shows and movies.

These companies are not alone in their use of memes to promote their products. Many brands have been using humor to connect with their target audience and stand out in a crowded market. However, the use of memes in marketing is a relatively new phenomenon, and it's unclear whether it will be a lasting trend.

The use of memes in marketing has significant implications for the AI and tech ecosystem. For example, companies like Kohl's and Wendy's are using social media platforms to reach their target audience, which is often younger and more tech-savvy. This trend has the potential to disrupt traditional marketing strategies, which often rely on more traditional channels like TV and print ads. Furthermore, the use of memes in marketing highlights the importance of data analysis in understanding consumer behavior. By analyzing data on social media engagement and user behavior, companies can better understand what types of content resonate with their target audience.

Researchers in the field of marketing have been studying the impact of memes on consumer behavior, with some finding that they can increase brand awareness and drive sales. For example, a study published in the Journal of Marketing found that companies that used humor in their marketing campaigns saw a significant increase in brand awareness and sales. However, other researchers have raised concerns about the potential downsides of using memes in marketing, such as the risk of alienating certain groups of consumers.

The use of memes in marketing is part of a larger trend towards more creative and interactive forms of advertising. In recent years, there has been a shift towards more experiential marketing, with companies creating immersive experiences for their customers. This trend has been driven by the rise of social media and the increasing importance of online engagement. However, the use of memes in marketing also highlights the ongoing debate about the role of humor in advertising.