Marketing Blog

For years we’ve done work with Mainstreets Pittsburgh, including with the URA and several Pittsburgh neighborhood business districts.  In some districts there are a variety of problems generated through nighttime activities in bars and clubs. You’re heard about it, with the South Side being one case study.  On June 8th City Councilman Bruce Kraus hosted a conference called “Sociable City 2010: Investing in a Safe and Vibrant Nighttime Economy.” (press release) The ideas brought by a panel of experts are a fine compliment to Main Streets strategies.

Over the last 10 years Randy Strothman has helped to produce or witnessed several success stories in marketing and branding historic communities and Main Streets. In these communities branding is about somehow embracing the rich past and the tentative present—along with a clear vision for the future. In the Pittsburgh area here are FOUR EXAMPLES, ranging from a new brand launch in 2010 to one that began 40 years ago.  Perhaps these provide some insights and inspiration for your own community’s marketing. (includes website & Facebook example links)

Go see AVATAR.  It is totally amazing!! The world James Cameron and his remarkable animators have created with their technological innovations is just filled with magical and mind blowing imagery. Loved it!  Surprise, surprise, the promos on TV feature the battle scenes. But the real magic is in the beautiful world that is threatened with extinction. And spend the extra few dollars to see it in 3-D.  Avatar’s advanced technology is symbolic of the “brave new world” born of the last decade.

In urban community redevelopment, often you’re either pushing for something or pushing against something else.  Sometimes you’re doing both simultaneously.  It’s the yin and yang of the process. In this case it’s a push back by neighbors against an proposed intrusion into a public, historic park on the Northside of Pittsburgh by a utility company.  See 2010 updates below

POSTSCRIPT on September 28th:

Many of the things that people feared would happen during the Summit did not because of the extensive precautions the City and others took.  In addition, Pittsburgh received much positive publicity around the world—a huge marketing success.  Perhaps our image has changed for thousands of people.  We’re breathing a sigh of relief as things return to normal.

ORIGINAL POST FOLLOWS…