This here’s an open letter to Willie G. (or Bill) Davidson.
Hello, sir. My name is at the top, and I’m an advertising guy, which means I’m right smart in the ways of branding and strategy and creativity.
It’s no great secret that most large Wisconsin brands choose to take their ad business out of state. And, mind you, it’s wonderful work that those Minnesotans put out, however, we’re right here, homey. Right down on Wells, dawg. And sure, there are plenty of local folks doing brochures, packaging and other design work for Harley Davidson, but those sexy ads?!? We’re hungry for ‘em.
Now having said that, if you ask me where I spent, say, my holiday dollars, you would hear my guilt-ridden words: “out-of-state.” The Gap, Apple Computer, REI and other non-Wisconsin companies took almost all of my cash in return for family happiness. And sure, the expectation of quality at these large vendors is a given. It’s an easy call to have the best sell you their wares. And that’s the harsh reality facing local businesses, which is why so many “mom and pops” have been crushed by the Wal-marts of the world. It’s the law of the jungle … and I can respect that.
But, over the holidays, I DID eat at my favorite restaurant, Roots (local), and I DID buy my wife a book from Harry Schwartz (also local), and I drank a mocha from little Nectar Café on Milwaukee Street. My wife often stresses the importance of supporting local businesses, and, I try, as does your exceptional corporation. But I still want a tiny taste of your hometown business and would even let you ride my grandfather’s 1940 ULH for the privilege.
But, if you don’t hire us for your next breakthrough campaign, at least take a tip from me and have dinner at Roots sometime. (Maybe you already have.) The Truffle Seared Tenderloin is the meat-equivalent of the Road King Classic. And I can join you for dinner, if you want.
