The Taco Cat – Kept Knowledge

Knowing when you’re being sold to is key to effective spending habits.

I flipped on the morning news today; I had a hard time paying attention. All I could focus on was the two coffee cups each woman had. It was clearly product placement; since each medium cup said DUNKIN’ and was clearly facing the TV. What confused me was not knowing if anyone else saw so easily what I couldn’t take my eyes off: the TOO perfectly aligned coffee mugs right in my face. Why couldn’t I get this off my mind? It reminded me of watching that movie where Tom Hanks gets castaway and every box on the beach where he is stranded alone is a FEDEX box. Is this legal? Subliminal? Also, whoever placed the cups that way. So perfectly, were they assuming most people don’t notice? Maybe they were high on Adderall? Everything was centred.

Let’s dive into the world of product placement, shall we?

🎬 Product Placement: The Art of Subtle Advertising

Product placement, also known as embedded marketing, is a technique where brands are integrated into media content to promote their products without traditional advertisements. This strategy has been employed in various forms of media, from movies and TV shows to music videos and video games.

Notable Examples:

Cast Away (2000): FedEx played a significant role in the film, with the company providing logistical support and allowing its brand to be prominently featured. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982): Reese’s Pieces experienced a surge in sales after being featured as E.T.’s favorite candy. James Bond Films: Brands like BMW and Omega have been showcased, aligning their products with the suave image of Agent 007.

⚖️ Is It Legal? The Ethics and Regulations

In the United States, product placement is legal and regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). However, transparency is required. The FCC mandates that broadcasters disclose paid product placements to maintain transparency with viewers.

Subliminal advertising, which involves flashing messages or images too quickly for conscious perception, is more controversial. While not explicitly illegal in the U.S., it is frowned upon and considered unethical by many.

🧠 The Psychology Behind It

Product placement leverages the mere-exposure effect, a psychological phenomenon where people tend to develop a preference for things merely because they are familiar with them. By subtly integrating products into content, brands aim to increase familiarity and, consequently, consumer preference.

📺 Old School vs. Modern Marketing

Old School Marketing:

Direct advertisements (TV commercials, print ads) Clear distinction between content and advertising

Modern Marketing:

Integrated advertising (product placement, influencer marketing) Blurred lines between content and promotion

The shift towards integrated advertising reflects changes in consumer behavior, with audiences becoming more resistant to traditional ads and more receptive to subtle, contextually relevant promotions.

🤔 Final Thoughts

The perfectly aligned Dunkin’ cups you noticed are a textbook example of product placement. While legal, the ethics of such practices continue to be debated. As consumers, being aware of these tactics empowers us to make informed choices and understand the subtle influences in the media we consume.

For a deeper dive into the world of product placement, check out this video:

Know why you want something before you purchase it. Drinking Dunkin Coffee from the store every day costs you $884 more than if you buy Dunkin Donuts Coffee kcups or ground coffee. You can even buy the mugs they use, for about $2.00. If you’re feeling like you need to spruce it up. Try writing Starbucks or dunkin on the mug. Not only does this start a morning routine for you. It doesn’t deprive you of the delicious Dunkin taste. Change your mind: change your life.

Absolutely, let’s break this down with the precision of a caffeinated accountant and the flair of a British comedian.

☕ The Daily Grind: Dunkin’ Store-Bought vs. Home-Brewed Coffee

Option 1: Buying Coffee Daily from Dunkin’

Assuming you’re indulging in a medium hot coffee each day:

Daily Cost: $2.69 Weekly Cost: $2.69 × 7 = $18.83 Monthly Cost: $2.69 × 30 = $80.70 Annual Cost: $2.69 × 365 = $981.85

Note: Prices may vary based on location and customizations.

Option 2: Brewing Dunkin’ Coffee at Home

Let’s consider you’re using Dunkin’ Original Blend Ground Coffee, which is approximately $8.99 for a 12 oz bag .

Servings per Bag: A 12 oz bag yields about 34 servings (based on 0.35 oz per 6 oz cup). Cost per Cup: $8.99 / 34 ≈ $0.26

Now, calculating the costs:

Daily Cost: $0.26 Weekly Cost: $0.26 × 7 = $1.82 Monthly Cost: $0.26 × 30 = $7.80 Annual Cost: $0.26 × 365 = $94.90

Note: These calculations exclude the initial cost of brewing equipment and utilities.

💰 The Savings Brewed Over Time

By choosing to brew your coffee at home, you’re looking at an annual saving of approximately $886.95 compared to purchasing a medium coffee daily from Dunkin’.

🧠 Brewing Wisdom

While the convenience of grabbing a coffee on the go is undeniable, the financial benefits of home brewing are substantial. Plus, you have the freedom to customize your brew to your exact taste preferences.

It’s undeniable. The facts are right there!

Emily Ridyard

April 15th 2025