Skip to content

Snapple: A refreshing take on brand building and content marketing

Snapple's playful marketing (quirky facts, funny ads) built a loyal fanbase by connecting with consumers through humor and engagement.

In 1972, a spark of inspiration (and a bit of fermentation) gave birth to Snapple. A New York company called Unadulterated Food Products was looking to make a splash in the natural juice market. When a batch of apple juice accidentally fermented, causing bottle caps to pop, the founders saw an opportunity. They merged the “snappy” sound with their apple product, and Snapple was born.

Building connections through playful marketing 

From the beginning, Snapple has stood out for its playful personality. Their unique flavor combinations and whimsical bottle designs grab attention on crowded shelves. But Snapple’s true genius lies in its ability to connect with consumers. The iconic “Snapple Facts” on bottle caps weren’t just quirky trivia; they were conversation starters, adding a layer of discovery and humor that transformed Snapple into more than just a drink.

Little tidbits of knowledge stamped on the inside of the Snapple bottle tops
Snapple is well known for printing interesting numbered List of Snapple “Real Fact” facts on the inside of their bottle caps.

 

Snapple’s advertising isn’t afraid to be funny. Their commercials, often featuring celebrities like Wendy Kaufman and Nick Cannon, are infused with wit and lightheartedness, setting them apart from the more serious tones of their competitors. These campaigns not only entertain, but also foster a sense of connection with viewers.

Nick Cannon for Snapple
Nick Cannon cools off with a Snapple, made from the best stuff on earth by Dr Pepper Snapple Group during day one of the Snapple Real Facts event in New York City

Engagement is a cornerstone of Snapple’s marketing strategy. They’ve featured fan mail in commercials, launched interactive “Real Facts” campaigns generated by AI, and used targeted messaging that resonates with specific demographics. Whether it’s a regional campaign like “New Yorkers Love Snapple” or a broader theme like “adulting,” Snapple finds ways to connect with their audience on a personal level.

Snapple is one of New York's most popular beverages, and the first beverage to sell out of a Brooklyn storefront.
A love story born in New York City! “New Yorkers Love Snapple” wasn’t just a marketing campaign; it became an iconic slogan that captured the city’s affection for the homegrown beverage.

Content marketing, Snapple-style: Adapting to the digital age

While not a traditional content powerhouse, Snapple understands the power of bite-sized content. The “Snapple Facts” themselves are perfect examples, sparking curiosity and conversation in a limited space. They leverage social media platforms to share funny memes, user-generated content featuring Snapple Facts, and even short informational videos inspired by their trivia. This allows them to build a community around their brand and keep fans engaged.

The key to Snapple’s long-term success is a commitment to both consistency and adaptation. They’ve maintained their core playful and humorous brand voice, creating strong brand recognition and loyalty. However, they haven’t shied away from change. They’ve embraced social media, celebrity endorsements, and innovative content formats, demonstrating a willingness to evolve with the times.

Snapple’s story is more than just about selling a beverage; it’s about creating a memorable brand experience. By prioritizing engagement, humor, and a unique personality, Snapple has carved out a niche in the competitive market and left a lasting impression on consumers. Their journey from “Real Facts” to real fans is a testament to the power of creativity and connection in building a successful brand.

In a recent press release (partially written by AI) the beverage company debuted the Snapple fAIct Generator, an online tool that allows users to discover and share fun facts at the click of a button.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Snapple (@snapple)