Thinking like an independent agency

Join us in NYC this Thursday, July 23 from 5-8 p.m.

RSVP

Zayn it ain’t so: Brands mourn the loss of a One Directioner

It’s a momentous time in history. Singer Zayn Malik has left One Direction, throwing tweens everywhere into a downward spiral of depression they will not emerge from until their 40th birthday. The news broke Wednesday morning that Malik was leaving the hot band to focus on being a “normal” 22-year-old. Brands, ever mindful of the difficult time this was for their young customers, were quick to lend their support. We round up and grade the offenders.

Girl Scouts
On-brand, includes the product and also just adorable. A+

JobSite U.K. Very cute offering from this U.K. company. A

Marmite Shoddy photoshopping, but appreciate the effort. B+

Denny’s You couldn’t even add in a picture of some of your comfort food? C-

Paddy Power Good use of “that moment when,” but are Paddy Power’s target demographic really pre-teen girls? D

Nihilist Arby’s This parody Twitter account has got game. A

Homepage image courtesy of Shutterstock.

More in Marketing

Five things the World Cup taught marketers about creators 

The World Cup has wrapped, which means it’s time for the obligatory marketing takeaways piece.

Walmart reveals soccer fans’ World Cup shopping habits

New data is from Walmart is showing that consumer shopping habits shifted during the 2026 World Cup.

Future of Marketing Briefing: What World Cup breakout stars Haaland and Zlatan can teach marketers about sports stardom

This year’s soccer darlings confirm the emergence of a new kind of sporting celebrity in direct conversation with fandom and social media.