Erotic magazines have been a popular form of media for decades, catering to people who are interested in sex, sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. These publications feature provocative photos and stories that explore various aspects of human desire. However, many advertisers have also used these magazines to promote mainstream goods beyond adult content. In this article, we will discuss how some companies capitalized on the popularity of erotic magazines to sell their products to a wider audience.
In the early days of erotica publishing, print was the primary medium for distributing pornographic material. Magazines like Playboy and Penthouse were among the most successful titles, selling millions of copies each year. They featured beautiful models posing in revealing clothing and often engaging in explicit acts. As such, they attracted an adult audience looking for visual stimulation. Some companies saw an opportunity to associate their products with these publications, using them as platforms for marketing lifestyle brands.
One example is Rolex watches. The luxury watchmaker began advertising its timepieces in Playboy magazine in 1968. The company's ads often featured images of women in suggestive poses, wearing nothing but the brand's signature watches. This association helped establish Rolex as a symbol of wealth and status, appealing to both men and women who wanted to flaunt their success. The campaign was so effective that it continued for over three decades, until the company pulled out in 20020 due to pressure from feminist groups.
Another notable case is Heineken beer. The Dutch brewery started running ads in Penthouse magazine in the 1970s, promoting its product as a drink for sophisticated consumers. The ads featured scantily-clad women holding bottles of Heineken, suggesting that drinking the beer could lead to sexual encounters. This strategy worked well, and Heineken became one of the top-selling beers in the United States. Today, Heineken continues to use erotic content in its advertising campaigns, though it has diversified beyond Penthouse.
Erotic magazines have also been used to promote automobiles. Audi ran a series of ads in Playboy in the 1980s featuring models posing seductively next to their cars. The ads aimed to appeal to men by associating sex with driving, highlighting the car's power and performance. Similarly, BMW partnered with Penthouse on several occasions, including a full-page spread featuring a woman lying on the hood of a 5 Series sedan. These ads emphasized the car's sleek design and sporty features while hinting at the driver's desirability.
Beyond adult content, erotic magazines can be used to market luxury goods like watches, alcohol, and cars. By leveraging the popularity of these publications, companies can reach new audiences and associate their products with sophistication and desire. However, there are also risks involved, such as negative public perception and backlash from feminist groups. Regardless, the trend shows no signs of slowing down, as companies continue to find creative ways to tap into people's sexual desires for commercial gain.