Genesee Cream Ale
One of the largest and oldest continually operating breweries in the United States since 1878, Genesee has been loved by many in Upstate New York for over a century.
What exactly is cream ale?
Cream Ale’s are one of only 3 beer styles that originated in
the United States, and Genesee was the first to democratize it.
Cream ales are a quintessential American invention and hybrid. It’s not quite a lager, quite a stout or ale. The illegitimate child of German lagers and English ales. It is crisp, full flavored and slightly sweet and has a corny flavor with faint malt notes. Originated in pre-prohibition times and was meant to mimic the light, refreshing quality of the German-born lagers with slightly different ingredients and methods.
Genesee's Goal:
The goal was simple: Brew a beer that’s smooth like a lager and crisp like an ale.
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It’s approachable, refreshing and easy to drink and doesn’t leave out anyone out from enjoying it. But is known as the beer of the working class since it was first brewed in 1960
How did this help position Genesee?
It made Genesee Cream Ale not just an
American Classic, but a New York Classic since 1960.
Strategy:
The original working class beer
from Upstate New York,
for true New Yorkers.​
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Leaning into the strong regional aspect of the beer it plays off what it means to be a true New Yorker, someone who knows the lifestyle, lingo and what it's truly like to live in New York.
Insight:
Being a "true New Yorker" is an unspoken badge of honor
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There is a strong pride and feeling associated with being from New York and understanding the culture.
Concept
If you know, you know.
Creative Executions
OOH:
We want to put ads where New Yorkers frequent: yellow cabs, the subway, and on food distribution trucks
Brand Act
Secret parties hosted by Genesee where their logo will be spray painted all across the city. In order to get the details to the party you have to take a picture, post it on social, tag Genesee and then Genesee will send them the party details.
The parties will be hosted at classic NYC venues like rooftops and warehouses and will feature New York bands only.
Brand Extensions
Genesee Beer Card: through a series of 3 questions we want to have only those who truly know New York to get this beer card that gives them a free Genesee at a variety of bars.
Genesee Pocket Dictionary: We will distribute “pocket dictionaries” that get people in the know about the true lingo and phrases of NYC so they’re in the know.
Bar Takeover/Merchandise
Bar Takeovers: Genesee will go where the people go… bars, these bar takeovers will feature everything Genesee and create a fully immersive experience
Coasters: what better way to hold a Genesee than a coaster, these will be distributed at bars and breweries around the city
T-Shirts: people can rep Genesee through these limited time minimal t-shirts that still have the Genesee green but has the beer logo only
