Marketing billboards, ads, and subtle “invisible” tactics are everywhere—they’ve become part of our daily lives. But some campaigns are so brilliantly executed that they leave a lasting impression on society and become unforgettable. In today’s Brandon blog, we’re highlighting 4 creative marketing stunts that truly stood out.
1. 3M’s Unbreakable Glass Stunt (2009)
Back in 2009, 3M, a company known for manufacturing ultra-strong glass, came up with one of the boldest marketing ideas the world had ever seen. They installed a glass display case at a bus stop and filled it with $3,000,000 worth of $20 bills.
The twist? According to the company, anyone could try to break the glass and take the money.
Hundreds of people tried—hitting, kicking, even shooting at the display—but none succeeded. The truth? Behind the top layer of real bills (only $500 in total) were stacks of fake notes. And the whole stunt cost the company just around $6,000, including the display itself, which was more expensive than the money inside!
This campaign not only demonstrated the strength of 3M’s glass but also attracted massive global attention with a surprisingly low budget.
2. Papa John’s “Peephole” Trick (2004)
When Papa John’s entered new markets like Peru, Russia, Oman, and Bahrain in 2004, they didn’t just rely on flyers and promoters. In Peru, they pulled off a low-cost yet genius stunt.
Instead of stuffing mailboxes or standing on corners handing out coupons, they created a promo sticker and placed it directly on people’s front door peepholes.
When residents walked up to their door and peered through the peephole, they were surprised to see a message or a special offer from Papa John’s. This unexpected and slightly cheeky approach instantly caught people’s attention—and the buzz spread quickly.
One sticker reached not just one person or household—it created viral stories shared with friends, neighbors, and coworkers.
3. Seattle’s Best vs. Starbucks: The Smartest Buyout Ever
In the 1990s, Seattle’s Best emerged as a strong competitor to Starbucks. But instead of trying to be similar, they positioned themselves as the anti-Starbucks.
Everything was different:
Not the same coffee
Not the same furniture
Not the same music
Not the same vibe
Not even the same service
They attracted customers who didn’t like Starbucks. The brand gained traction, and then Starbucks made its move.
Starbucks bought Seattle’s Best.
But instead of rebranding or shutting it down, they kept it running separately and even emphasized the contrast more. The result?
People who loved Starbucks kept going there.
People who didn’t go to Seattle’s Best.
Either way, the money went to Starbucks.
This move may not have been the most profitable marketing play in history, but it’s widely considered one of the most elegant and strategic.
4. A Marketing Lesson in Visibility
Let’s circle back to the peephole sticker example, because it teaches a timeless truth in marketing: visibility matters more than volume.
A flyer in a mailbox is often ignored or thrown out. A promoter on the street might reach one person at a time. But a sticker on a door peephole? That reaches entire households and leaves a memory. It sparks conversations. It surprises people. And that surprise gives it viral power.
These campaigns might not have been the most profitable of the last 100 years, but they’re certainly among the most creative—and beautiful in their simplicity. Especially the last example from Starbucks: an elegant solution that turned a competitor into an asset.
Want more inspiring content? Keep following Brandon’s blog and don’t miss our recent post: “Content Analysis in 2023”—available now!