Copywriting reviews

Posts featuring analysis or criticism of real-world copywriting, from packaging text through to corporate taglines.

Topical copywriting Topical copywriting

Should marketing taglines be based on news headlines?

Copywriting for empathy Copywriting for empathy

Generating empathy means gently alluding to shared ideas or experiences – not corporate boasting.

Don’t be ashamed of your brand values Don’t be ashamed of your brand values

Sellotape’s latest slogan centres on creativity and inspiration. But are those the brand’s true values?

Heart of the matter Heart of the matter

The most effective headlines get right to the heart of the product’s appeal for maximum emotional impact. Here’s an analysis of one that doesn’t.

The power of long copy The power of long copy

The astonishingly unorthodox packaging used by Kiehl’s is a lesson in how and when long copy can add major impact.

Misplaced apostrophe at Sainsbury’s Misplaced apostrophe at Sainsbury’s

An example of how poor punctuation can undermine meaning.

Police slogans on trial Police slogans on trial

UK police forces stand accused of having ‘meaningless’ slogans. Is there a charge to answer?

Tone of voice and customer experience Tone of voice and customer experience

Tone of voice should be consistent throughout the customer experience, but marketers tend to look for easier wins.

On funky copywriting On funky copywriting

Funky copywriting takes an informal, offbeat and informal tone in order to generate rapport with readers. But it needs to be done with care, and at the right time.