What do Wrigley Field and NASCAR vehicles and drivers have in common?
They’re both examples of opportunity branding.
The ballpark where the Chicago Cubs play got the name Wrigley Field way back in 1926 to honor the team’s owner, William Wrigley Jr. The fact that Wrigley also made the popular chewing gum elevated the ballpark to a powerful piece of outdoor opportunity branding.
Similarly, NASCAR drivers and vehicles present many opportunities to sew on logos, glue on decals, and paint the names of brands.
The lesson is that you should be as opportunistic as these people: Use every opportunity you have to feature your logo, your name, your social media channels, your phone number, or your website.
Here are some common places you can put your brand today:
1. Graphics
If you use graphics in your social media or content marketing — and you should — be sure that everything you publish is branded.
When I share this article on Facebook and Twitter, the images I create always include my logo.
2. Packaging
Bags and shipping boxes should feature your brand and perhaps even contact information.
Every package you receive from Amazon is an example of this strategy. If you can’t afford right now to print up new packaging or bags, get some nice rubber stamps made, grab a colorful inkpad and go to work.
3. Email
Your logo and social media links should be included in every email marketing message you send. Using an email service provider, like
Using an email service provider, you can easily customize an email template with your business logo, colors, social media buttons, and contact information.
4. Presentation materials
Whether you’re creating a PowerPoint presentation or pulling together a folder to promote your business, get your branding on everything.
Further, for items such as PowerPoint presentations, make a template so everyone on your team can create good-looking slides with your brand.
I would also include business cards, stationary, and any printed materials in this group. Drake Baer and Skye Gould have a great article over on Business Insider that breaks down business card design.
5. Vehicles
If you have company vehicles, consider a “wrap” or sign painted on your door. The Outdoor Advertising Association of America says that a wrapped vehicle can create as many as 30,000 to 70,000 impressions a day.
6. Clothing
If I say “khakis and a blue shirt,” what am I talking about? The ubiquitous “uniform” at Best Buy. Establishing a consistent look in your team is often a good idea and it can become an element in your brand identity.
7. Giveaways
Other small items should include your branding and contact details. If you’re in B2B and offer coffee to your clients, use a regular or travel mug that has your logo on it. Promotional items can be used effectively and can greatly benefit your business.
Which branding opportunity are you overlooking?
Hopefully, these seven ideas have sparked new branding ideas for your business.