What Super Bowl Ads Tell Us : Which Trends to Follow

February 12, 2024
A family is sitting on a couch watching a football game on a television.

The Super Bowl is not just a sporting event, it's also a cultural phenomenon. Millions of people tune in every year to watch the game, but also to see the highly anticipated commercials. These ads have become a major part of the Super Bowl experience, with companies spending millions of dollars for a 30-second spot. But what do these ads tell us about current trends in advertising and marketing? And how can businesses use these trends to their advantage? Let's take a closer look


Emotion Sells

One thing that is consistent in Super Bowl ads is the use of emotion to sell products. Whether it's humor, nostalgia, or heartwarming stories, these ads aim to make an emotional connection with the audience. This is a trend that businesses can follow in their own advertising. By tapping into the emotions of their target audience, companies can create a stronger connection with their customers and increase brand loyalty.


Diversity and Inclusion

A man with a beard is taking a selfie in a park.

By: https://blog.google/products/pixel/superbowl-ad-2024-watch-javier-in-frame/


In recent years, Super Bowl ads have become more, featuring people of different races, genders, and sexual orientations, and disabilities. This reflects a larger trend in advertising, where companies are making an effort to be more inclusive and represent a diverse range of people in their ads. This not only appeals to a wider audience but also sends a positive message about the company's values.


Google's poignant Super Bowl 58 ad captivated audiences with its innovative storytelling and powerful message of inclusivity. Through the eyes of its main character Javier, the ad beautifully portrayed his journey from singlehood to family life, capturing the transformative moments with remarkable clarity. Using clever cinematography, the ad skillfully depicted Javier's world initially out of focus, mirroring his experiences as a man with low vision. However, as Javier utilized the Google Pixel's innovative features, the ad jolted into focus, revealing the remarkable clarity and detail captured by the device. This touching portrayal not only showcased the transformative power of technology but also sent a powerful message about the importance of diversity and representation in advertising.


Social and Environmental Responsibility

Another trend that has emerged in Super Bowl ads is the focus on social and environmental responsibility. Companies are using their platform to promote causes and initiatives that align with their values. This not only helps to create a positive image for the company but also resonates with consumers who are becoming more conscious of the impact of their purchases.


The Rise of Digital Advertising

A poster for doordash-all-the-ads.com with a red bag on top of a mountain.

By: DoorDash https://about.doordash.com/en-us/news/doordash-all-the-ads


While Super Bowl ads are still a highly coveted spot for companies, there has been a shift towards digital advertising in recent years. Many companies are now releasing their ads online before the game, creating buzz and reaching a wider audience. This also allows for more interactive and engaging ads, such as social media campaigns and virtual reality experiences.


One standout example of this digital-first approach is DoorDash's innovative Super Bowl 58 campaign. By hosting a sweepstakes that rewards viewers who crack the code of their commercial with a truckload of prizes, DoorDash has demonstrated the potential of digital advertising to create buzz, engage consumers, and showcase brand innovation on a global stage. As we approach Super Bowl 58, it's clear that the rise of digital advertising is reshaping the way brands connect with audiences during major events, ushering in a new era of creativity and engagement in the advertising industry.


The Power of Storytelling

One thing that sets Super Bowl ads apart from regular commercials is their ability to tell a story. These ads often have a narrative structure and can evoke strong emotions in the audience. This is a trend that businesses can follow in their own advertising, as storytelling has been proven to be an effective way to engage and connect with customers.


The Bottom Line

Super Bowl ads are not just about selling products, they also offer valuable insights into current trends. By paying attention to these trends, businesses can create more effective and impactful marketing campaigns. Whether it's tapping into emotions, promoting diversity and inclusion, or using digital platforms, these trends can help businesses stay ahead of the game. So, what ad trends do you want to start using? Contact us today to get started.

Share this blog!

A person is typing on a laptop computer with a watch on their wrist.
By Elyza McQueen February 16, 2025
Boost your SEO with schema markup! Learn how structured data enhances search visibility, increases CTR, and improves rankings with our expert guide.
A close up of the facebook app on a phone
By Elyza McQueen February 14, 2025
Facebook page admins are encountering a new notification requiring them to confirm if their content is suitable for children under 13. Is this a new Facebook policy or a technical glitch? Learn how this change aligns with COPPA, impacts content moderation, and what it means for your page's visibility and compliance.
Share by: