The Push

S3 E52: How Play-Doh’s brand distinctiveness was discovered, not created


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Most of us remember Play-Doh from childhood, but few of us realise what makes it truly distinctive. 

In this episode, Brand Strategist Jack Ferguson explores how a product known for its texture built enduring emotional equity through something far less obvious.

He explores:

  • How a brand's strongest assets and true distinctiveness can emerge accidentally, and what that means for you
  • The overlooked power of non-visual assets like smell, touch, and sound
  • How brands like Play-Doh, AFL, and Coca-Cola encode sensory memories that last
  • Why marketers should pay attention to how brands are felt, not just seen
  • Why “transcending senses” may be the next frontier for brand distinctiveness

A thought-provoking episode for senior marketers who want to build brands that stick in memory, sometimes in ways we never planned.

Helpful Links:

Find Jack on LinkedIn Here: Jack Ferguson | LinkedIn

Find Jack's Website Here: Evidence-Based Brand Strategy & Marketing Consulting | Jack Ferguson

Visit The Push Website Here: For Senior Marketers...By Senior Marketers | The Push

Find The Push on LinkedIn Here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thepush

Find The Push on YouTube Here: The Push - YouTube

Find The Push on TikTok Here: TikTok - Make Your Day

Find The Push on Instagram Here: https://www.instagram.com/bethepush

Play-Doh Finally Launches Play-Doh For Adults

Hasbro Trademarks a Favorite Smell from Childhood: The PLAY-DOH Scent | Hasbro

Smells like victory: registering scent trade marks in Australia - Trademark - Australia

Meet the Exclusive Club of Trademarked Scents in the U.S.

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The PushBy Jack Ferguson


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