In the latest Keeping Up with the Kardashian’s episode, I have to question if Flip Video Camcorders were strategically placed in the script.
Khloe Kardashian spends the episode filming a sexy video to send her husband Lamar Odom while he is away traveling for the Lakers.
Her friend and sister Kourtney filmed her with their Flip Video Camcorder. Her awkwardness in skimpy outfits entertained viewers and undoubtedly had Lamar cracking up. She refers to her Flip and there were multiple close up shots of the camcorder. Maybe the Flip is her electronic toy of choice, or perhaps she was given a free Flip in return for incorporating it into an episode.
What do you think? Was it planned out or truly coincidence?
The concept of product placement is nothing new. Marketers have been trying to get around the classic “channel surfer” since the 1950’s. For those who don’t know how it works, the placement of products is embedded in the script or program setting of television shows, so it cannot be avoided, thereby increasing exposure.
Recently this practice has reached its highest level. The drive for increased use of product placement is concisely described by research firm PQ Media, “Its growth has taken off in part because TV networks are looking for more ways to make up for declining ad revenue and a rapidly fragmenting audience that is finding entertainment on the Internet and on mobile devices.”
Consumers are not “fooled” any longer by the rooted advertisements. Some people see the practice as deceitful and extremely disturbing. Here is an article fully describing the dispute: http://bit.ly/2Oyw1A
As television regulations increase perhaps it is time for “Product Placement 2.0”!?
Is integrating marketing into music out of the question? I don’t think this is a venue that should be passed up! Many rap artists already mention high-end liquors when dishing about their lavish life-styles and party lives. Why not take this further? The success for companies could be strong, especially in popular rap songs played at bars.
While out enjoying nightlife at college, songs blare and people unknowingly buy drinks their favorite artists sing about.
Anyone remember the LFO song Summer Girls and the popularity of Abercrombie?! Perfect example of how popular songs influence purchases.
Maybe your agency should call up Lil’ Wayne to mention your clothing line or beef up your special product. Rappers are already mentioning cars and drinks that promote their status, why shouldn’t other companies join the party? Does paying music artists to mention and promote a company take it too far?
In the latest Keeping Up with the Kardashian’s episode, I have to question if Flip Video Camcorders were strategically placed in the script. 
