Rupal Parekh corners Brancheau for a Q&A in Ad Age about the state of the economy, boosting marketing
spend and the doping controversy that has begun swirling around Leaf spokesman Lance Armstrong, whom he supports. "The claims are all unsubstantiated up to this point," says Brancheau.
"He's iconic, and he's almost the epitome of innovation when you think about athleticism."
Stuart Elliott, meanwhile, reveals in the New York Times that Nissan North America is changing brand themes in a new campaign that
proclaims its mission is to provide "Innovation for all." Robert Downey Jr. will be the new voiceover actor for TV spots that break Saturday. The commercials also promise to be a bit more
humorous than in the past, Elliott reports.
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The new direction is intended to convey a leadership position for the Nissan brand, according to Rob Schwartz, chief creative officer at TBWA/Chiat/Day Los Angeles, Nissan's agency. The goal is to concentrate on "human-centric innovation," such as new products like the Leaf and noteworthy features found on Nissan products.