Being in marketing I sometimes get glimpses into future trends and novelties, but occasionally get taken aback by what seems to be retrograde steps. The latest news from Michelin that they were re-introducing the michelin man (bibbendum) took me aback - you mean they dont currently use it? Years of i-spy book and shodding my car with michelin means i had no idea. Most laughably they stated they are thinning bibbendum down to be in line with customer expectations. Um. More like double the size in line with social trends!
Even better (or worse) MG have changed their moniker. MG being synonymous with sports cars of the late 50's and 60's - try saying MG without adding "B GT", like saying audi without "quattro". They announced that they are changing from Morris Garages (whenever did anyone associate MG with Morris Garages?) to the epitomy of 21st century stuff - "Modern Gentlemen". Of course, you would wouldnt you. That captures the always-on i-pod generation doesnt it. Unlike this luddite marketeer who imagines some edwardian gentleman with a bloke with a red flag 50 yards ahead. Um us creative types sometimes dont know what good for us!
