Advertising: Key conventions

 

Conventions and analysis 

1) What key conventions of print adverts can you find and what are the connotations or deeper meanings of each convention? For each convention, write about how it communicates meaning to the audience. See the Maltesers advert above for an example of how to do this.

• Pictures of the product (Skittles) to remind us of the type of product it is. The image also reinforces the word ‘rainbow’ as the sweets are arranged in an arch which is sorted by colour. 
• The Slogan at the bottom is fairly visible and stands out roughly against the background. ‘taste’ and ‘rainbow’ reinforce the USP – that Skittles are a happy and positive brand of sweets that are friendly for all ages. 
• The Background features a sky blue wallpaper with clouds. It is bright and eye-catching with connotations of heavenly. This makes the consumer recognise the brand colour and makes them think the product is a heavenly experience. 

2) What is the USP (unique selling point) for Skittles and how do you know? Does the advert use any of persuasive techniques listed above?

I believe that the USP for Skittles is younger children as the multicoloured sweets are more aesthetically pleasing for younger kids so they are more likely to enjoy these treats. Therefore making them more popular amongst the consumer market.