Global Trends and Politics

Why Stellantis Was the Only Automaker to Advertise during Super Bowl 59

Published

4 months ago

February 10, 2025

Why Stellantis Was the Only Automaker to Advertise during Super Bowl 59

Actor Harrison Ford touts Jeep and Americana while taking a dig at another Detroit automaker during Stellantis

DETROIT — A CEO’s exit, electric vehicles making the industry run around like “headless chickens” and a company’s U.S. revival all came together to make Ram and Jeep parent Stellantis the only automaker with a Super Bowl 59 commercial.

That’s according to Stellantis Chief Marketing Officer Olivier Francois, who said while other automakers abandoned this year’s big game amid industry uncertainty and cost cutting, it was critical for the embattled trans-Atlantic carmaker to return to the Super Bowl.

Francois said Stellantis Chairman John Elkann, a scion of Italy’s Fiat carmaker, called him after CEO Carlos Tavares’ abrupt departure in December and told him to advertise during the big game as a recommitment to the automaker’s business in the U.S.

“We were not set to make a commercial. John Elkann called me in December, saying, you know, ‘I want something. I want to make a comeback. We want to show, to express, that comeback story. We want to show America how much it is important to the Stellantis group,'” Francois told CNBC.

Stellantis, formerly known as Fiat Chrysler, has become well-known under Francois for symbolic, nontraditional ads that feature iconic celebrities that tell a story beyond just attempting to sell new cars and trucks.

It started when the automaker was attempting to make a comeback from its 2009 bankruptcy. It aired a surprise two-minute Super Bowl ad in 2011 featuring rapper Eminem and the city of Detroit — tying the company’s revival to the Motor City’s grit and rebirth. The ad also featured a now discontinued Chrysler sedan called the 200.

Francois said Elkann, who’s leading the search for a new CEO, told him to recapture that kind of “comeback” spirit for the automaker, following years of cost-cutting and lackluster sales in the U.S.

Elkann, Francois said, also told him to think of late-Fiat Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne when creating the automaker’s ads this year. Marchionne, who died in 2018, was a supporter of Francois and past Super Bowl ads.

“There is a kind of philosophy attached to Sergio, which is that he believed in playing like you have nothing left to lose. He used to say, ‘Mediocrity is not worth the trip,'” Francois said. “So this year’s Super Bowl creative execution and investment are very much the essence of the spirit.”

Since Eminem, the company’s Super Bowl ads have featured actors such as Clint Eastwood, Bill Murray and singer Bob Dylan, among others. Those spots haven’t necessarily prominently featured any specific vehicle, but they’ve discussed culturally relevant topics such as political divides and patriotism.

Stellantis’ Ram Trucks ad this year was a more traditional, comedic Super Bowl commercial. It starred “Twisters” and “Top Gun: Maverick” actor Glen Powell reimagining “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” with trucks.

But the automaker’s two-minute Jeep ad starring Harrison Ford was a true return to form for Francois.

Jeep Super Bowl ad

Francois said Ford turned down an initial pitch for a different ad. That’s when Francois said he and friend Edward Razek, a former marketing executive for Victoria’s Secret owner L Brands who resigned amid controversy in 2019, wrote the first version of the ad that aired.

CMOs don’t typically write scripts. It’s more common for those executives to approve a script from an agency, with guidance. Francois said agencies did assist ahead of the final ad, but the script and ideas started inside the automaker.

In the ad, Ford discusses freedom, heroes and people writing their own stories in life because there is no “Owner’s Manual,” which is the title of the commercial.

As Ford opined, several Jeep models can be seen driving and off-roading, including one that passes a Ford Bronco SUV — a newer competitor to the Jeep Wrangler SUV — while the actor talks about inspiring others.

“I said ‘yes’ to doing this commercial because of the script. It’s a very straightforward communication about life and ends with getting in a Jeep vehicle, that’s the hook. It didn’t require me to reintroduce myself, point to the fact that in my life I’ve been many things and known for specific projects or roles,” Ford said in a statement. “It’s just a quiet talk from somebody sharing an idea. I love the way it developed.”

The Wrangler passing the Bronco is one of two references to the Jeep rival. The other comes from the actor at the end of the ad: “Choose what makes you happy. My friends, my family, my work make me happy. This Jeep makes me happy — even though my name is Ford. That’s my owner’s manual. Get out there, write your own.”

The Jeep ad was shot over two days with Ford in Santa Clara, California, in early December, according to Stellantis.

‘Headless chickens’

Automotive has historically been one of the top segments for Super Bowl advertising. Even during the Great Recession in 2008 and 2009 when the industry was hit hard, several companies such as Toyota Motor, Hyundai Motor and Audi aired ads.

Francois believes other automakers likely didn’t participate in the Super Bowl this year because of a lack of payoff in prior years, when many automakers, including Stellantis, touted all-electric vehicles that weren’t on sale.

“In the last years, there was plenty of automakers, all of them [touting] EVs, EVs that didn’t even exist,” Francois said. “These guys are obviously running like headless chickens: EVs, EVs, EVs. I mean, that’s where we all were.”

Automakers regularly advertised during the NFL regular season and playoffs, including with sponsorships such as Toyota being the “Official Automotive Partner of the NFL.” But none, other than Stellantis, advertised during Sunday’s game.

Both of Stellantis’ Super Bowl ads this year featured electric vehicles, but they also included traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines as well as plug-in hybrid models such as the Jeep Wrangler.

Francois said it may have been a blessing that Elkann called him in early December instead of months earlier because it allowed him to be more relevant in the messaging, rather than just touting EVs.

“The moment had changed, and I was lucky enough to have the possibility to rewrite the scripts. To rewrite history, to say, to not run like a headless chicken,” Francois said. “I was able to improvise in the moment.”

Stellantis declined to disclose how much money it spent on the production or broadcast of the ads, which were selling for up to $8 million for 30 seconds of air time during Super Bowl 59.

But Francois said Elkann has told advertising and marketing leaders at Stellantis that “Marketing is no longer a cost. It is an investment.”

Conclusion

Stellantis’ return to the Super Bowl with its Jeep and Ram brands marks a significant shift in the company’s marketing strategy. By focusing on storytelling and Americana, the automaker is attempting to recapture the spirit of its 2011 comeback ad featuring Eminem and the city of Detroit.

The company’s decision to feature electric vehicles alongside traditional and plug-in hybrid models is also a nod to the changing landscape of the automotive industry.

FAQs

Q: Why did Stellantis return to the Super Bowl this year?
A: Stellantis Chairman John Elkann called Chief Marketing Officer Olivier Francois to advertise during the big game as a recommitment to the automaker’s business in the U.S.

Q: Why did other automakers not participate in the Super Bowl this year?
A: Francois believes other automakers likely didn’t participate in the Super Bowl this year because of a lack of payoff in prior years, when many automakers, including Stellantis, touted all-electric vehicles that weren’t on sale.

Q: How much did Stellantis spend on its Super Bowl ads?
A: Stellantis declined to disclose how much money it spent on the production or broadcast of the ads, which were selling for up to $8 million for 30 seconds of air time during Super Bowl 59.

Global Trends and Politics

JetBlue to Cut Flights and Costs Amid Uncertain 2025 Break-Even Prospect

Published

3 minutes ago

June 17, 2025

WORxK Global News Team

JetBlue to Cut Flights and Costs Amid Uncertain 2025 Break-Even Prospect

Introduction to JetBlue’s Cost Cutting Measures

A JetBlue Airways Airbus A321-231 taxis at San Diego International Airport on March 4, 2025 in San Diego, California. JetBlue Airways CEO Joanna Geraghty told staff the carrier is implementing a host of new cost cuts as softer-than-expected travel demand is making break-even operating margins this year "unlikely."

Reason Behind Cost Cutting

"We’re hopeful demand and bookings will rebound, but even a recovery won’t fully offset the ground we’ve lost this year and our path back to profitability will take longer than we’d hoped. That means we’re still relying on borrowed cash to keep the airline running," Geraghty said in a note to staff dated Monday. U.S. carriers have announced plans to trim capacity, particularly in the second half of the year, as bookings for domestic travel came in weaker than expected this year and fares fell. Airfare in May was down 7.3% compared with last year, according to U.S. Department of Labor’s inflation report.

Impact on Operations

JetBlue has been looking for ways to increase revenue and cut costs after federal judges blocked its planned acquisition of budget carrier Spirit Airlines last year and its Northeast U.S. alliance with American Airlines in 2023. The airline last posted an annual profit in 2019. JetBlue will further cut off-peak flights and trim unprofitable routes. It will also pause plans to retrofit four of its older Airbus A320 jets with new interiors and park them, while the six remaining jets slated for the refurbishment are still on track for next year.

Restructuring Plans

The carrier is also assessing its hiring plans and could combine some leadership roles and rein in travel spending. Last month, JetBlue announced a new partnership with United Airlines that will allow customers to book flights on each other’s airline and earn and use frequent flyer miles. Geraghty told staff that while the carrier is assessing its hiring plans, it will continue to bring on new front-line employees and fill other positions, including a new director for the United partnership.

Investment in Premium Services

JetBlue has invested heavily in premium-class seats in an effort to win over travelers willing to splurge on their trips. The memo said it’s still planning to outfit some of its planes with domestic first class and build airport lounges. "These are the building blocks of a stronger JetBlue, and they remain in motion," Geraghty said.

Conclusion

In conclusion, JetBlue Airways is taking measures to cut costs and increase revenue due to softer-than-expected travel demand. The airline is reducing off-peak flights, trimming unprofitable routes, and pausing plans to retrofit some of its jets. Despite these challenges, JetBlue remains committed to investing in premium services and building a stronger brand.

FAQs

Q: Why is JetBlue implementing cost cutting measures?
A: JetBlue is implementing cost cutting measures due to softer-than-expected travel demand, which is making break-even operating margins this year "unlikely."
Q: What changes can passengers expect from JetBlue?
A: Passengers can expect reduced off-peak flights and trimmed unprofitable routes. However, JetBlue is still planning to outfit some of its planes with domestic first class and build airport lounges.
Q: How will JetBlue’s partnership with United Airlines affect passengers?
A: The partnership will allow customers to book flights on each other’s airline and earn and use frequent flyer miles.
Q: What is JetBlue’s outlook on profitability?
A: JetBlue’s path back to profitability will take longer than expected, and the airline is still relying on borrowed cash to keep operating.

Global Trends and Politics

Baby items get pricier, congressional report says

Published

12 hours ago

June 17, 2025

WORxK Global News Team

Baby items get pricier, congressional report says

Introduction to Tariff Policies and Baby Gear

The cost of some baby gear has risen in recent weeks due to President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, according to a new congressional report. The report analyzed the prices of five common items bought for babies and found that they have increased by 24%, or by $98 combined, between April 1 and June 9.

Impact of Tariff Policies on Baby Gear

The analysis tracked the prices of five popular baby gear categories: car seats, bassinets, strollers, high chairs, and baby monitors. It used data from baby registry website Babylist to determine the price increases. The findings show that new parents are facing higher prices for essential items, which can be a significant burden on their budgets.

Companies’ Responses to Tariff Policies

Some companies have said they will work to mitigate the impact of the levies and offset the costs to consumers, while others, including Best Buy and Costco, have said they already raised some prices. Walmart and Target said they plan to hike prices on some items. Baby gear sold in the U.S. is specifically at risk of tariff impact because 97% of strollers and 87% of car seats are manufactured in China, according to Babylist.

Price Increases for Specific Baby Gear

The committee’s report tracked the prices of the most popular Amazon listings for products from five of Babylist’s categories of baby goods. The Amazon bestsellers included items from brands Graco, AirClub, Summer by Ingenuity, Evenflo, and HelloBaby. The report measured the price increases over time using the price-checking websites Keepa.com and Camelcamelcamel.com. Of the five items studied, the Graco car seat saw the highest price increase, with a 44.8% increase over the measured time period.

Response from Graco Owner Newell Brands

A spokesperson for Graco owner Newell Brands told CNBC in a statement that the report appears to have started collecting data on the Graco car seat during a period when retailers were running a promotion. The spokesperson said the car seat was on sale on April 1, so the price was hiked by about $20, not by $43, as suggested in the report. Executives from Newell said during an April 30 earnings call that the company had raised prices on its baby gear by about 20%.

Broader Impact of Tariff Policies on Baby Gear

A broader Babylist analysis of 11 categories, including products like bouncers and diaper bags, found that costs increased by an average of $400 combined between March 10 and June 3. Those higher prices for new parent households in the U.S. amount to $875.2 million in total additional costs, according to the analysis and based on data from the American Community Survey. The study found particular risk for parents in California, with parents in that state collectively facing a potential $100.3 million in additional baby costs this year.

Conclusion

The tariff policies implemented by President Donald Trump have resulted in significant price increases for baby gear, making it more difficult for new parents to afford essential items. The report’s findings highlight the need for policymakers to consider the impact of tariff policies on consumers, particularly those with limited budgets. As the trade tensions between the U.S. and China continue to escalate, it is likely that the prices of baby gear will continue to rise, affecting many families across the country.

FAQs

Q: What is the main reason for the price increase in baby gear?
A: The main reason for the price increase in baby gear is the tariff policies implemented by President Donald Trump.
Q: Which baby gear categories have been most affected by the tariff policies?
A: The baby gear categories most affected by the tariff policies are car seats, bassinets, strollers, high chairs, and baby monitors.
Q: How much have the prices of baby gear increased since April 1?
A: The prices of baby gear have increased by 24%, or by $98 combined, since April 1.
Q: Which state is most affected by the price increase in baby gear?
A: California is the state most affected by the price increase in baby gear, with parents facing a potential $100.3 million in additional baby costs this year.
Q: What is the total additional cost of baby gear for new parent households in the U.S.?
A: The total additional cost of baby gear for new parent households in the U.S. is $875.2 million.

Global Trends and Politics

Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Get 2025 Refresh

Published

1 day ago

June 16, 2025

WORxK Global News Team

Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Get 2025 Refresh

Introduction to the Premium Credit Card Rivalry

The long-running rivalry between the country’s top premium credit cards is about to heat up again. JPMorgan Chase announced last week that a refresh of its Sapphire Reserve — the travel and dining rewards card that went viral when it arrived in 2016 — was imminent.

Response from American Express

In response, American Express on Monday said that "major" changes were coming to its consumer and business Platinum cards later this year. While short on details, the New York-based card company said that its update would be its largest ever investment in a card refresh. "We are going to double down on the things we know based on the data that our card members love," said Amex President of U.S. Consumer Services Howard Grosfield in an interview. "But more importantly, we’ll bring a whole bunch of new and exciting benefits and value that will far, far, far exceed the annual fee."

History of Premium Credit Cards

American Express pioneered the premium credit card space decades ago with cards that bundled perks at airlines and hotels with access to its own network of high-end airport lounges. But JPMorgan shook up the industry in 2016, igniting stiff competition among card issuers with a lavish sign-on bonus and other incentives for its Sapphire card.

Expected Changes and Updates

The expectation among industry experts is that both companies will offer ever-longer lists of perks in travel, dining and experiences, while potentially raising their annual fees, as has been the pattern with recent updates. The Platinum card has a $695 annual fee, while the Sapphire has a $550 fee. On Reddit and other forums, card users circulated rumors that JPMorgan was hiking the annual fee on its Sapphire product to $795. A JPMorgan spokesperson declined to comment.

Launch of the New Platinum Card

The new Platinum card will launch in the fall, Grosfield said. The updates from both companies are expected to further intensify the competition in the premium credit card market.

Conclusion

The rivalry between JPMorgan Chase and American Express is set to heat up with the upcoming refresh of their premium credit cards. With expected updates and new benefits, card users can look forward to enhanced perks and services. However, the potential increase in annual fees may be a concern for some users.