1. Thomas Cook
Holidays are about letting go, which is something UK travel agent Thomas Cook demonstrates in its most recent ad.
Created by Albion, the spot was launched in UK cinemas during the first Star Wars: The Force Awakens screenings in December, and is ideal content for an online audience with its infectious choreography, catchy beats and dynamic pace.
This little boy shows that holidays are all about shaking off those day-to-day stresses. His happy-go-lucky attitude and funky moves are not only a quick fix for anyone suffering with the January blues, but inspire consumers to be spontaneous with booking their holidays.
Wearing nothing but a pair of swimming trunks and a shark fin strapped to his back, this boy personifies self-confidence and spontaneity, aligning the brand with a positive message for 2016.
2. Virgin Active
While it’s clear an active lifestyle helps decrease your health risks and improve your overall wellbeing, Virgin Active shows viewers the less obvious gains from working out. Who knew training could help you dodge those awkward first date kisses like a pro, or escape from an even more awkward date by climbing out of a toilet window? Whatever happens in life, there’s a workout for it.
Virgin Active knows how to think outside of the box, supporting the campaign by creating 33 emojis specific to different exercises such as squats, burpees and yoga poses to further engage audiences through social media.
3. Center Parcs
Center Parcs is getting families together again as its promotes short-break holidays this year. The video follows a family of bears, struggling to connect with one another amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
As we move into 2016, we’re already seeing brands like Center Parcs encouraging viewers to return to their roots to solve the problem. The theme tune 'True Colours' covered by Ben Madeley emphasises this point further.
Published just two days before Christmas, this ad combines the familiar with the surreal to great success, and gives us a glimpse into what we can expect from advertisers in 2016.
4. Protein World
After creating one an almighty row last year with its ‘Beach Body Ready’ poster, Protein World is back with its 'New Year, New You' TV ad, which first aired on MTV and Channel 5 on New Year's Day.
While the spot features models with impeccable physiques, lucky enough to be working up a sweat on the beach, it also has a focus on encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle.
The campaign spans international markets including the US, Germany and France, and was previewed to audiences through social media by the chief executive of Protein World, Arjun Seth, sparking conversation ahead of the full release.
5. British Airways
Tempted to go on holiday this year, but can’t seem to find the time to plan ahead? British Airways knows how to take the stress off the consumer, as demonstrated in its latest 'Holiday' TV ad. While it may lack the sentimental appeal of Center Parcs’ bears or the playful nature of Thomas Cook’s young superstar, this is a brand that knows how to reach its consumers.
Aired during the final ever episode of ITV's Downton Abbey on Christmas Day, the spot was created by BBH and is timed perfectly to appeal to those looking for an excuse to jet set.
The video is set to Jake Bugg’s 'Lightning Bolt' and channels a subtly adventurous vibe, calling out to fatigued couples around the world. In BA’s words, they will handle the logisitcs, you just need to handle the holiday.