The First M&M’s Commercial: A Timeline of Advertising History

<h2>Introduction</h2>

M&M’s, the iconic candy-coated chocolate pieces, have become a beloved treat enjoyed worldwide. Their success can be partly attributed to their extensive and creative advertising campaigns, which have played a crucial role in shaping the brand’s identity.

<h2>History of M&M’s</h2>

M&M’s were invented in 1941 by Forrest Mars Sr. and Bruce Murrie, who sought to create a chocolate candy that would not melt easily in warm climates. The name “M&M” is derived from the first letters of their last names. Initially, M&M’s were sold exclusively to the U.S. military, but after World War II, they became available to the general public.

<h2>Evolution of M&M’s Advertising</h2>

M&M’s advertising has consistently emphasized the candy’s unique features, such as its colorful coating and resistance to melting. Early campaigns featured slogans like “The milk chocolate melts in your mouth, not in your hand” and “Only M&M’s have the ‘M’ printed on them.”

<h2>First M&M Commercial</h2>

The first M&M commercial aired in 1954 and featured two animated M&M characters, Red and Yellow. The commercial showcased the candy’s colorful personalities and playful rivalry. It was created by the advertising agency BBDO.

<h2>Impact and Reception</h2>

The first M&M commercial was a resounding success, introducing the brand’s signature characters and establishing its humorous and lighthearted tone. The commercial helped to increase M&M’s sales and popularity, solidifying its position as a leading candy brand.

<h2>Subsequent M&M Commercials</h2>

Following the success of the first commercial, M&M’s continued to produce memorable and innovative advertising campaigns. Notable commercials include the “Melting Pot” campaign in the 1970s, which featured M&M’s characters interacting with celebrities, and the “Spokescandies” campaign in the 1990s, which introduced a cast of anthropomorphic M&M characters.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

The first M&M commercial played a pivotal role in the brand’s advertising legacy. It introduced the iconic characters and established the humorous and relatable tone that has characterized M&M’s advertising for decades. The commercial’s success paved the way for subsequent groundbreaking campaigns, solidifying M&M’s as a beloved and enduring candy brand.

<h2>References</h2>

FAQs

What is the history of M&M’s?

M&M’s are colorful button-shaped candies produced by Mars, Incorporated. They were first introduced in 1941 by Forrest Mars Sr., the son of the founder of the Mars company. The candy-coated chocolates quickly gained popularity and have since become one of the most recognizable confectionery brands worldwide.

When did M&M’s start advertising?

M&M’s began advertising shortly after their introduction in 1941. However, the first official M&M’s commercial, featuring the beloved characters “Red” and “Yellow,” aired on television several decades later.

When was the first M&M’s commercial aired?

The first M&M’s commercial aired in 1954, marking the beginning of the brand’s iconic advertising campaigns. The commercial featured the characters “Red” and “Yellow” engaging in witty banter while showcasing the colorful M&M’s candies.

Who were the characters in the first M&M’s commercial?

The first M&M’s commercial introduced the characters “Red” and “Yellow.” “Red” is the sarcastic and slightly grumpy character, while “Yellow” is portrayed as the more innocent and naive one. These characters have since become synonymous with the M&M’s brand and have appeared in numerous commercials and advertisements.

What was the theme of the first M&M’s commercial?

The theme of the first M&M’s commercial was centered around the colorful and playful nature of the candies. It introduced the tagline “The milk chocolate melts in your mouth, not in your hand,” emphasizing the unique candy-coating that prevents the M&M’s from melting easily.

Where can I watch the first M&M’s commercial?

The first M&M’s commercial can be found on various video-sharing platforms, such as YouTube. Searching for “first M&M’s commercial” should yield results with the original commercial from 1954, allowing you to watch it and experience the early advertising campaign of this iconic candy brand.