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Why Was Budweiser Missing From Super Bowl Commercials? The Surprising Reason Unveiled

Why No Budweiser Commercial In Super Bowl

Find out the reasons behind Budweiser's absence from the Super Bowl commercials this year, leaving fans curious and speculating about their marketing strategy.

Every year, the Super Bowl is not just a football game, it's also an event where biggest brands compete to show the most creative and memorable commercials of the year. However, during the 2021 Super Bowl, something was missing - Budweiser. That's right, the iconic beer brand chose not to air a commercial, leaving fans wondering why.

So, what happened? Did Budweiser lose its advertising budget? Were they boycotting the event? Here is everything we know so far:

First of all, it's important to note that Anheuser-Busch InBev, the parent company of Budweiser, decided to allocate its funds differently this year. Instead of spending millions on a single Super Bowl ad, they decided to donate the money to raise awareness about the COVID-19 vaccine.

According to a statement from Anheuser-Busch InBev's US chief marketing officer, Marcel Marcondes, “This year, instead of advertising during the game, we are redirecting those resources to PSA’s (public service announcements) that encourage people to get vaccinated.”

This decision has been praised by many as a responsible act by a brand that cares about public health, but it also raises some questions. Does this mean that other brands who aired commercials during the Super Bowl don't care about the pandemic?

Well, not necessarily. While Budweiser chose not to air a commercial during the game, other brands did use their platform to send messages related to the pandemic. For example, Michelob Ultra used its ad to promote fitness and encourage viewers to move more, while Jeep paid tribute to essential workers and called for unity.

Another possible reason for Budweiser's absence from this year's Super Bowl is also related to the pandemic. Due to the ongoing restrictions on gatherings and events, many people opted for at-home viewing instead of attending a Super Bowl party. As a result, the usual spike in beer sales during the game was not as significant.

Budweiser's decision to skip the Super Bowl ad this year might also be a part of their long-term strategy. With the rise of streaming platforms and on-demand content, traditional TV commercials are becoming less effective in reaching younger audiences. Instead, brands are turning to social media and influencer marketing to connect with their target demographic.

Despite not having a commercial aired during the game, Budweiser did release a digital ad campaign that encourages people to support local bars and restaurants. The ad features images of empty bars and restaurants with the message, Let's grab a beer, America. We're all one team. This campaign reflects Budweiser's commitment to supporting small businesses that have been hit hard by the pandemic.

In conclusion, while it's strange not to see a Budweiser commercial during the Super Bowl, it's clear that the brand has made a conscious decision to prioritize public health and support local communities. By allocating its funds to promote the COVID-19 vaccine and encouraging viewers to support small businesses, Budweiser has shown that it is more than just a beer brand - it's a brand that cares about its consumers and the world around them.

So, next time you grab a cold one, remember the brand that used its advertising budget for good, and cheers to Budweiser.

As the Super Bowl has now passed, many people may have been surprised to note the absence of any Budweiser commercial during the game. For many TV viewers, seeing celebrities and companies unveil their latest ad campaigns is a highlight of the annual event. In this blog article, we'll explore why Anheuser-Busch, the parent company of Budweiser, chose to sit this year out.

Introduction of Budweiser's Super Bowl ads

For those who may not remember, Budweiser is recognized as a pioneering force behind television advertising. They played a significant role in ushering in the era of the Super Bowl commercial. Over the years, the beer brand has created some of the most unforgettable advertisements that have resonated with audiences around the world. Budweiser's Super Bowl commercials have become a staple of the event, eagerly awaited each year.

Their ads often involve heartwarming stories or funny situations that leave a mark on viewers. Some famous examples include the famous Clydesdales horse, the 'Whassup' guys, and the heart-tugging 'Lost Dog' advert.

No Budweiser This Year

Budweiser's absence from the Super Bowl ad roster for the first time in 37 years was a surprise experiment to realign its advertising strategies. Anheuser-Busch's chief marketing officer Marcel Marcondes explained in an interview with Ad Age, We needed to make sure the spotlight was where it should be when all the focus will be on the outcome of the game.

This year, instead of distributing vast amounts on the Super Bowl campaign, the company decided to divert the funding to support Covid-19 vaccine awareness programs, which are far more critical.

The Big Game Spot Alternatives

As part of their realigned marketing strategy, the company announced a few other moves. It all started with the Bigger Picture ad that featured their water brand called Bon & Viv. They diverged to distribute Super Bowl spots to Michelob Ultra, Bud Light Seltzer Lemonade, and a corporate spot about their commitment to sustainable brewing. According to Marcondes, these moves reflect consumers' changing expectations towards the role of the brands in society.

Michelob Ultra Presentation:

The Michelob Ultra commercial features celebrities like Serena Williams, Maluma, and Don Cheadle committing themselves to workout routines, leading an active lifestyle, and enjoying the beer after a long workout.

Bud Light Seltzer Lemonade:

The Bud Light Seltzer Lemonade showcases various people, including a wedding couple, rock band, and a group of beachgoers, sipping the product under lemon trees.

Sustainability Advertisement:

The sustainability ad, which lasted roughly thirty seconds, aimed to promote Anheuser-Busch's newly unveiled sustainability commitment, which pledged that it would become 100% renewable by 2025. The ad promotes the company's clean energy goals and their use of recycled materials in its packaging.

Conclusion

Gathering a massive audience with the Super Bowl, advertisers turn to large-budget ad promotions to put their product/service on the map. Still, this year, Anheuser-Busch decided to take a step back and focus on larger social interests rather than solely lining their own pockets. The resulting alternative advertising met with mixed reviews but stood out from past Super Bowl campaigns for their more significant message.

It is worth noting that Budweiser's market share has indeed declined over the last ten years, with a growing acceptance of craft beers nationwide. This circumstance could be an influencer in the company's decision to try other ad strategies.

Why No Budweiser Commercial In Super Bowl

The Super Bowl is one of the most highly anticipated events in American sports. It is an opportunity for individuals and families to come together and enjoy a day of football, fun, and of course, commercials. For many years, companies have used the Super Bowl as a platform to showcase their products and services, and one of the most popular advertisers during the big game has been Budweiser. However, this year, Budweiser made the decision not to air a commercial during the event. In this blog post, we will be discussing the reasons why Budweiser decided to sit out of the Super Bowl advertising game.

The Cost of Advertising During the Super Bowl

One of the main reasons why Budweiser decided not to advertise during the Super Bowl was the high cost associated with running an advertisement during the event. For many years, the cost of a 30-second spot during the Super Bowl has continued to rise. In 2021, the cost of a 30-second ad during the Super Bowl was $5.6 million. For many companies, especially those who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, this cost is simply too high.

The Rise of Digital Advertising

Another reason why Budweiser chose to sit out of the Super Bowl advertising game is the rise of digital advertising. With the advent of social media, companies have found that they can reach a larger and more targeted audience through online advertising than through traditional television advertisements. Online advertising also allows companies to track the success of their campaigns in real-time, whereas television advertising can be much more difficult to measure.

Budweiser’s Focus on COVID Relief Efforts

Budweiser is known for its advertising campaigns that feature animals, humor, and the classic “Budweiser” tagline. However, in 2021, the company decided to shift its focus away from advertising and towards COVID relief efforts. Budweiser announced that it would be redirecting the marketing budget for the Super Bowl to support vaccine awareness and education programs. The company believes that this is a more effective way to connect with consumers and to make a positive impact.

The Impact of the Pandemic

Like many companies, Budweiser was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The company’s sales declined significantly in 2020 due to the closure of bars and restaurants, as well as the cancellation of sporting events and concerts. Given the economic impact of the pandemic, Budweiser likely made the decision to sit out of the Super Bowl advertising game as a cost-saving measure.

The Importance of Brand Refreshment

Another reason why Budweiser may have decided not to advertise during the Super Bowl is the importance of brand refreshment. Budweiser has been a longstanding advertiser during the Super Bowl, but the company may have felt that it was time to take a break and to come up with new and innovative marketing strategies. By refocusing its marketing efforts on COVID relief and other initiatives, Budweiser can rejuvenate its brand and appeal to a new generation of consumers.

Comparing Budweiser To Other Brands

Brand Cost of 30-second ad during Super Bowl 2021 (in USD)
Budweiser -
Coca-Cola 5.6 million
Pepsi 5.5 million

When looking at the table above, we can see that Budweiser was not the only company to sit out of the Super Bowl advertising game. Both Coca-Cola and Pepsi also had no advertisements during Super Bowl LV. However, other brands such as Tide, Doritos, and Amazon all ran ads during the event. This further illustrates the importance of brand refreshment and whether it is worth the high cost of advertising during one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

Opinion on Budweiser’s Decision

In my opinion, Budweiser made the right decision in sitting out of the Super Bowl advertising game. The economic impact of the pandemic has hit many companies hard, and it makes sense to redirect marketing budgets towards initiatives that can make a positive impact. I also believe that this decision will help to rejuvenate the Budweiser brand and appeal to a new generation of consumers. Ultimately, whether or not a company advertises during the Super Bowl should be based on its goals, rather than following a trend or tradition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many reasons why Budweiser chose not to advertise during the Super Bowl in 2021. These reasons range from the high cost of advertising to the rise of digital advertising and the company’s focus on COVID relief efforts. While other brands also sat out of the game, Budweiser’s decision reflects the importance of brand refreshment and the need to come up with new and innovative marketing strategies. Ultimately, Budweiser’s decision shows that there are many factors to consider when deciding whether or not to advertise during the Super Bowl, and that companies should base their decisions on their goals and values rather than following a trend or tradition.

Why No Budweiser Commercial In Super Bowl

The History of Budweiser Commercials in Super Bowl

For decades, Budweiser has been known for its iconic commercials that air during the Super Bowl, one of the most watched television events of the year. From their Whassup? campaign to the beloved Clydesdales, Budweiser has brought us some of the most memorable ads in Super Bowl history. Over the years, these commercials have become a major part of the Super Bowl viewing experience, with millions of people tuning in specifically to see what Budweiser has in store. However, in 2021, Budweiser made the surprising decision not to run any commercials during the Super Bowl.

The Reason Behind the Decision

The decision not to run commercials during the Super Bowl was not because of a lack of interest or financial issues; instead, it was based on a desire to put their resources towards fighting COVID-19. In January 2021, Budweiser announced that it would be reallocating its Super Bowl ad budget to help raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19. The company pledged to donate a portion of their advertising budget to the Ad Council and COVID Collaborative's Vaccine Education Initiative, which aims to educate Americans about the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines.

Other Anheuser-Busch Commercials During the Super Bowl

Although Budweiser itself did not run any commercials during the Super Bowl in 2021, its parent company, Anheuser-Busch, still had a significant presence during the game. Anheuser-Busch aired four commercials during the Super Bowl, including ads for Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, and Stella Artois. These commercials featured celebrities like Post Malone and Serena Williams and were met with mixed reviews from viewers.

The Impact of Budweiser's Decision

Positive responses from the Public

Budweiser's decision not to run ads during the Super Bowl has been widely praised by public health officials, as well as many Americans. By using their significant advertising budget to promote vaccine education, Budweiser is helping to combat vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, which will ultimately help us get closer to ending the pandemic.

Negative Responses from Consumers and Viewers

Despite the positive impact of their decision, some viewers were disappointed that they would not be seeing a new Budweiser commercial during the Super Bowl. Many people have come to look forward to Budweiser's ads as part of the Super Bowl viewing experience, and the absence of these ads felt like something was missing from the broadcasts.

What's Next for Budweiser's Advertising Strategy?

Focusing on Digital Platforms

While Budweiser may have skipped out on the Super Bowl in 2021, this doesn't mean that they are giving up on advertising altogether. In fact, Budweiser has shifted its focus to digital platforms in recent years, creating innovative ad campaigns that are designed to reach younger and more diverse audiences. They have also placed a greater emphasis on social media, using platforms like Instagram and Twitter to engage with their customers and promote their brand.

Investing in Sustainability

Another area where Budweiser is focusing its efforts is sustainability. The company has set aggressive goals for reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable agriculture, and it is investing heavily in renewable energy and other green initiatives. Budweiser's commitment to sustainability is not only good for the environment, but it also resonates with consumers who are increasingly concerned about the impact of their purchasing decisions.

Conclusion

While it may have been disappointing for some viewers not to see a new Budweiser commercial during the Super Bowl in 2021, the company's decision to reallocate its advertising budget towards fighting COVID-19 is a testament to their commitment to social responsibility. By promoting vaccine education and investing in sustainability initiatives, Budweiser is demonstrating that they are more than just a beer company – they are a brand that cares about making a positive impact on the world. As the advertising landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Budweiser adapts and innovates to stay relevant and continue to connect with new generations of consumers.

Why No Budweiser Commercial In Super Bowl?

The Super Bowl is a sporting event considered to have one of the most significant viewership. So, it is no surprise that businesses take advantage of this opportunity to advertise their products on this platform. One of the brands that have been consistent in airing commercials during the Super Bowl for many years is Budweiser. However, things were different in 2021.

For the first time in 37 years, Budweiser decided not to air any commercial during the Super Bowl. This decision was a surprise to viewers and fans of the brand, who are used to seeing their favorite beer advertised during the big game. Being a popular brand and a household name, the reasons behind this decision has led to speculation among people.

One of the reasons why Budweiser didn't air commercials during the 2021 Super Bowl is due to the pandemic. The pandemic has had a massive impact on businesses worldwide, and the beer industry is no exception. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the way people consume and purchase beer has changed drastically. Many bars and restaurants have closed or reduced the frequency of customers, which has affected the profits of many alcoholic beverage companies, including Budweiser. Despite this, Budweiser decided to reallocate their Super Bowl budget towards coronavirus vaccine awareness ads.

In addition, the competition in the beer industry has increased, and there are many new beer brands that are appealing to younger audiences. Consumers' preferences have also evolved, with more people opting for craft beer and other alternatives. Budweiser's decision to shift its focus towards creating a social impact rather than just advertising is an attempt to maintain relevancy in the market and also to project itself as a socially responsible brand.

Another reason why the beer company decided not to air commercials during the Super Bowl this year is because of the change in its marketing strategy. In recent years, Budweiser has been creating ads that evoke emotions and pull at the heartstrings of viewers. This year, however, Budweiser chose to create humorous and light-hearted ads, which did not align with their current marketing strategy. By choosing not to air a commercial during the Super Bowl, Budweiser was signaling a shift away from emotional marketing towards more direct means of marketing.

Moreover, Budweiser's parent company, Anheuser-Busch, still aired commercials during the 2021 Super Bowl. Bud Light and Michelob Ultra both had advertisements that aired during the game. Although Budweiser may have decided not to air their commercial this year, this in no way suggests the beer brand's popularity has waned. In fact, Budweiser continues to be one of the top-selling beer brands in America.

Budweiser's decision not to run an advertisement during the 2021 Super Bowl may seem baffling to some people, but it is a commendable move. Instead of just focusing on profits and advertising, they decided to shift their attention to raising awareness about the pandemic and supporting vaccine distribution. This is an altruistic action by-one of America's most well-known beer brands, and it proves that profit is not their only motive.

In conclusion, although we missed seeing the Budweiser Clydesdales and all of the other things that make Budweiser's Super Bowl commercials great, it's great to think that they chose to support worldwide recovery efforts rather than focus on advertising this time around. Hopefully, more giant companies follow in Budweiser's example and do their part in the fight against the pandemic.

Thank you for taking your time to read this blog. We hope you have gained more insight into Budweiser's decision not to air its commercial during Super Bowl 2021.

Why No Budweiser Commercial In Super Bowl?

What is the reason for Budweiser not having a Super Bowl commercial?

Every year, Budweiser has been one of the mainstays in the Super Bowl commercial lineup. However, the company announced that it will not air any ads during the Super Bowl LV in 2021. The reason behind this decision is due to a shift in marketing strategy.

What is the new marketing strategy for Budweiser?

Budweiser has decided to allocate its Super Bowl ad budget to support COVID-19 vaccine awareness and education programs. Instead of investing in Super Bowl commercials, Budweiser has opted to donate its funds to the Ad Council and the COVID Collaborative's Vaccine Education Initiative.

Will there be any commercials from Budweiser during the Super Bowl LV?

Although Budweiser as a brand will not have any commercials during the Super Bowl, its parent company, Anheuser-Busch, will still have four minutes of commercial time, which it will allocate to other brands under its portfolio.

Is this the first time Budweiser has not had a Super Bowl commercial?

This is the first time in 37 years that Budweiser will not have a Super Bowl commercial. However, the brand has made similar moves in the past. In 2020, Budweiser opted out of the Super Bowl and instead had a social media campaign.

Why did Budweiser decide to make this move?

Budweiser believes that supporting COVID-19 vaccine awareness and education programs is more vital than investing in Super Bowl commercials during a time of crisis. The company wants to prioritize social responsibility and support the ongoing effort to overcome the pandemic.

Overall, although there will be no Budweiser commercials during the Super Bowl LV, the company is still making a strong statement by prioritizing social responsibility and supporting efforts to combat COVID-19.

Why No Budweiser Commercial In Super Bowl?

1. Is Budweiser not participating in the Super Bowl this year?

No, Budweiser has made the decision to forgo airing a commercial during the Super Bowl this year.

2. Why is Budweiser not advertising in the Super Bowl?

Budweiser has decided to reallocate its advertising budget and focus on COVID-19 vaccine awareness campaigns instead.

3. Are other Anheuser-Busch brands also skipping the Super Bowl?

Yes, Budweiser is part of the Anheuser-Busch family of brands, and they have collectively decided to abstain from advertising during the Super Bowl this year.

4. How will Budweiser promote its brand without a Super Bowl commercial?

Budweiser will be redirecting its resources towards supporting COVID-19 vaccine public education efforts, including partnerships with various organizations to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination.

5. Will Budweiser return to the Super Bowl in the future?

While Budweiser's absence from the Super Bowl this year is specific to their decision to prioritize vaccine awareness campaigns, they have not ruled out returning to the Super Bowl in the future.

6. Are other brands also opting out of Super Bowl commercials this year?

Yes, several other major brands have chosen not to air commercials during the Super Bowl this year due to the unique circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in marketing strategies.

7. How much does it cost to advertise during the Super Bowl?

Super Bowl commercials are notoriously expensive, with prices ranging from millions of dollars for a 30-second spot. By redirecting their advertising budget, Budweiser can allocate resources to other campaigns.