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Ad men take boomers back to the 60s

The Oklahoman, 8/19/07

Abstract:

Valerie Fried, 56, admits advertising aimed at her generation, whether it's music, the model's age or subject, gets her attention.

"Some of it is a little insulting, some of it rather humorous, and some of it resonates with a memory," Fried said. "I'm not sure whether Led Zeppelin trying to sell me a Cadillac makes me want to buy a Cadillac. But listening to the song sure takes me back to a pleasant time and place..."

...Marketing to baby boomers is big business these days. At 78 million — or a quarter of the population — boomer account for up to 58 percent of purchases in the consumer product and services categories, studies show. Their spending power alone is more than $2 trillion per year.

It's not wonder Carnival Cruises used the Rolling Stones to sell cruises, or General Motors Corp. tapped Led Zeppelin to sell Cadillacs.

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