100 Best Ads Of All Time
Part 7 of 10 (Ads 61–70)
This part of the collection focuses on wit, speed and cultural awareness. Many of these ads work because they respond quickly, tap into shared moments, or use simple ideas that land instantly.
61. Virgin Atlantic – Baggage Reclaim Eggs
A witty way to show the care Virgin Atlantic take with your baggage. The activation in South Africa went super viral.
What we can learn:
If there’s a chance to show your strengths in a real-world way, do it.
62. Apple – Super Bowl (Ridley Scott)
One of the most inspiring ads ever made. It feels like a movie, and with Ridley Scott directing it, that’s no surprise. Apple positioned themselves clearly as the alternative to the status quo.
What we can learn:
Strong positioning comes from contrast. Showing what you are not can be just as powerful as showing what you are.
63. Pepsi – David Beckham vs Juventus
A fun ad leaning into football banter. Using one of the biggest stars of the time made it instantly engaging.
What we can learn:
Take common humour from your audience’s world and see how it can work for your brand. Using a thought leader in your space amplifies it.
64. Carlsberg – If Carlsberg Did Takeaways
A series of iconic ads that still hold up today. Classic Carlsberg confidence and tone throughout.
What we can learn:
Know your audience’s wants and desires and build content around them to position your brand.
65. Nando’s – Where Are My Chips
Not one of the greatest ads ever, but it definitely grabs attention and is memorable. It pushes close to the edge and is happy to deal with the backlash.
What we can learn:
Sometimes it’s worth going closer to the line to stand out.
Dare to do it.
66. Nike – Yesterday You Said Tomorrow
A simple billboard with lots of white space and a powerful message that pushes people to take action.
What we can learn:
White space is impactful. Strong statements aligned to your product can be enough.
67. Coca-Cola – Best Free Ad
The best free ad Coke ever got, amplified perfectly by the brand.
What we can learn:
If a random opportunity appears, amplify it, especially when it feels like genuine user-generated content.
68. Bottega Veneta – Craft
A newer ad, but an incredible one. The script, pacing, cast and message are all perfectly aligned.
What we can learn:
Pacing is everything. It creates emotion and carries the story.
69. Burger King – AI Reply to McDonald’s
In response to McDonald’s AI ad backlash, Burger King hit back quickly with a perfectly timed poke.
What we can learn:
If there’s an opportunity to take a shot at a competitor quickly and in good humour, take it.
70. Adidas – José + Perfect 10
A brilliant use of football history, bringing together generations of players around the idea that nothing is impossible.
What we can learn:
Look for creative ways to tell your tagline. Using icons from your industry only strengthens the message.