Explore the journey of advertising from the past to present in 'Advertising's Evolution: Connecting the Past and Present.' Uncover timeless principles and modern strategies.

1. Advertising's Evolution: Connecting the Past
and Present
From catchy radio jingles to today's digital marketing and social media influencers,
ads have come a long way. Join us in this blog as we cruise through the evolution of
advertising, from the old static days to today's interactive experiences that are
everywhere.
1. WHEN DID ADVERTISEMENTS ACTUALLY START?
The first known commercial advertisements date back to Venetian traders in the 18th
century. In India, the first advertisement appeared in "The Bengal Gazette" on January
29, 1780. This marked the inception of advertising as we know it.

2. 2. EVOLUTION OF ADVERTISEMENTS
Print Advertisements:
The practice of advertising expanded with the popularity of newspapers in India.
Indian firms like Godrej, Tata, and Amul utilized newspapers to promote their
products, experimenting with images and headlines to capture attention.
Era of Radio Advertisements:
The Indian Broadcasting Company (later AIR) started radio broadcasting in 1927,
leading to the first paid radio ad in the early 1930s. This marked a new era in Indian
advertising.
Golden Age of TV Ads:

3. Television advertising emerged in the 1960s with Doordarshan. Noteworthy
campaigns like Surf Excel's "Lalitaji" set the stage for the diverse environment of TV
advertising in India.
The Era of Liberalisation:
Economic liberalisation in 1991 brought foreign businesses to India, impacting
television advertising. Brands like Nestle, Pepsi, and Coca-Cola gained acceptance
through captivating TV ads.
Hoarding Advertisements:
Outdoor advertising (OOH) originated in the colonial era. Hoardings and billboards
became common, featuring large, attention-grabbing images for effective OOH
advertising.
Celebrity Advertising:
Celebrity endorsements gained prominence as TV and film became popular in India.
Celebrities influence public decisions, making endorsements an effective marketing
strategy.
Digital and Online Advertisements:
The internet revolutionized advertising, allowing targeted, interactive, and creative
ads. Social media agencies craft engaging posts, interactive websites, and brand
stories. Influencer marketing became prevalent, with specialized agencies for
industries like jewellery marketing, real estate marketing, and FMCG marketing.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OLD & NEW ADVERTISEMENTS
Old Advertisements New Advertisements
Mass marketing, limited personalization Highly targeted based on demographics
and interests
One-way communication, focus on Two-way communication, storytelling,

4. features and benefits emotions, engagement
Limited format options, often repetitive Diverse formats (video, images, text),
emphasis on creativity and innovation
Difficult to track results, relied on
impressions
Trackable metrics (clicks, conversions,
engagement), data-driven optimization
High cost for prime placements, limited
reach
Varied costs, more affordable, and wider
audience reach
Selling products and services Building brand awareness, loyalty, and
community
4. ARE OLD ADVERTISEMENTS RELEVANT TODAY?

5. Though older ads are less prevalent, their timeless principles like emotional appeal,
storytelling, and clear communication still pack a punch. Nostalgia can evoke
positive feelings and brand remembrance, and the simplicity of old ads can shine
amid today's digital complexity.
CONCLUSION
Old ads still have value! Blend their strengths with today's trends, like social media
and influencers. For a winning ad, team up with a digital marketing agency. Reach
out at hello@florafountain.com to begin.
Merge past lessons with today's innovations to grab attention in this era of short
attention spans.