According to a 2007 study by Pew Research Center, more than a third of all 18-to-25-year-olds have at least one tattoo. Employers continue to struggle with this ever-growing trend, and most have strict policies prohibiting workers from exposed tattoos and body art in the workplace. Meanwhile, in an effort to make their brands appeal to this new generation of consumers, marketers are now rewarding people for tattooing company logos and slogans on their bodies.
Goodyear’s Dunlop Tire brand offers a free set of four tires to anyone who tattoos the ‘flying D’ logo anywhere on their body, and 98 people have already inked the deal. Volvo, Budweiser, NetZero and Toyota are among other corporate giants that have also implemented– or are experimenting with tattoo-oriented campaigns and sponsorships.
The new startup website leaseyourbody.com is hoping to become the clearinghouse for this practice, linking companies who are interested in this new type of exposure with the young people who are willing to sacrifice their personal appearance to make a quick buck.
Personally, I think as little of the companies who engage in this process as I do those who are idiotic enough to take them up on it. Do you agree, or am I just being an old foggie?
