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Lemon
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Lemon

Volkswagen · 1960

Agency
Doyle Dane Bernbach
Campaign
Think Small

Analysis

A plain Beetle photograph sits above the word Lemon. The copy explains why inspectors rejected the car for a small defect.

“Lemon.”
negative headlinequality proofrestrained layout

Why it worked

The apparent criticism creates a reason to read. The inspection story converts that criticism into evidence of care.

Lesson

Use an apparent negative to introduce specific proof of quality.

Image source

© Volkswagen. Shown for study and commentary.

Not affiliated with or endorsed by Volkswagen.