As businesses navigate the intricacies of the modern marketplace, understanding the return on investment (ROI) of their marketing efforts becomes paramount. Whether it’s measuring the profitability of advertising campaigns, evaluating the effectiveness of marketing strategies, or deciphering the impact of specific initiatives, ROI serves as a crucial metric in assessing success and guiding future endeavors.

Here at Amra and Elma, we dive deeper to explore the 10 Best Marketing ROI examples, dissecting the strategies and methodologies that underpin their success. From industry giants like McDonald’s and Apple to innovative disruptors like Netflix and Airbnb, each case study offers invaluable insights into the power of strategic marketing in driving tangible results.

10 Best Marketing ROI examples

1. McDonalds – I’m Lovin’ It

2. Apple – Shot on iPhone

3. Nike – Just Do It

4. Google – Best Paid Media Campaign

5. Old Spice: The Man Your Man Could Smell Like

6. Samsung – Do What You Can’t

7. Microsoft – Stories campaign

8. Dove – Real Beauty

9. Netflix – subscription based services

10. Airbnb – Live There

How Do You Calculate Marketing ROI?

ROI stands for “Return on Investment.” It’s a measure used to evaluate the profitability or efficiency of an investment relative to its cost. In marketing, ROI is often used to assess the effectiveness of advertising campaigns, marketing strategies, or specific initiatives. It’s calculated by dividing the net profit generated by the investment by the cost of the investment, and then expressing the result as a percentage or ratio. A positive ROI indicates that the investment has generated more profit than its cost, while a negative ROI suggests the opposite. It’s a crucial metric for businesses to determine the success and profitability of their marketing efforts.

ROI (Return on Investment) in marketing is calculated by comparing the net profit generated from a marketing campaign to the cost of the campaign.

10 Best Marketing ROI examples:

1. McDonalds – I’m Lovin’ It

McDonald’s consistently stands out as a prime example of effective marketing with an impressive return on investment (ROI). Its strategies resonate globally, earning it accolades and recognition from industry experts. Let’s delve into the factors underpinning McDonald’s marketing prowess.

A. Brand Value:
According to Interbrand’s “Best Global Brands” report, McDonald’s consistently ranks among the top brands globally, reflecting its strong brand value. For instance, in 2023, McDonald’s was ranked 9th with a brand value of $129.3 billion.

B. Market Penetration:
McDonald’s operates in over 100 countries and serves approximately 69 million customers daily. This extensive market reach showcases the effectiveness of its marketing strategies in appealing to diverse audiences worldwide.

C. Advertising Spending:
McDonald’s invests significantly in advertising to maintain its brand presence and drive customer engagement. In 2020, McDonald’s spent approximately $808 million on advertising in the United States alone, according to Statista.

D. Recognition by Industry Experts:
McDonald’s marketing efforts have been recognized by industry experts and organizations. For example, McDonald’s received the Cannes Lions Creative Marketer of the Year award in 2019 for its innovative and impactful advertising campaigns.

E. Innovative Campaigns:
McDonald’s is known for its innovative marketing campaigns that resonate with consumers. For instance, the “I’m Lovin’ It” campaign launched in 2003 has become iconic and contributed to reinforcing the brand’s image globally.

2. Apple – Shot on iPhone

As the advertising and consumer engagement landscape continues to evolve, Apple remains at the forefront, consistently crafting remarkable marketing campaigns that enchant audiences and generate remarkable ROI. Its marketing ROI is an outcome of its business strategy, continually showcasing impressive returns on its marketing investments. Take, for instance, the “2019 Brand Finance Global 500“ report, where Apple’s Marketing ROI stood at an impressive 4.3, highlighting the effectiveness of its marketing endeavors. This remarkable figure underscores the significance of marketing in Apple’s success story.

A. Forbes Insights:

Forbes provides further insight into this phenomenon, quantifying Apple’s marketing triumph by revealing a staggering $7.7 billion in ROI. This data, outlined in the article “Apple’s iPhone: The Best and Worst Returns on Marketing Dollars,” solidifies Apple’s position as a marketing powerhouse, demonstrating the tangible results of its strategic approach.

B. Decoding Apple’s Marketing Strategy:

Delving deeper into Apple’s marketing strategy unveils a meticulously crafted approach, particularly evident in its iPhone launch campaigns. These campaigns are masterfully designed to generate buzz, anticipation, and ultimately, drive sales.

C. Secrecy and Anticipation:

Central to Apple’s success is its commitment to secrecy and anticipation. By shrouding its product launches in secrecy and withholding details until the last moment, Apple creates a sense of mystery and excitement among consumers. This strategy not only fuels anticipation but also cultivates a fervent desire for the latest iPhone model, translating into robust pre-orders and record-breaking sales upon release.

D. Buzz-Building Tactics:

Moreover, Apple employs a plethora of buzz-building tactics to amplify the excitement surrounding its iPhone launches. From strategically timed product reveals to captivating teaser videos and exclusive events, Apple leverages every opportunity to engage consumers and ignite their enthusiasm for its products. These tactics not only resonate with existing Apple enthusiasts but also attract new audiences, expanding the brand’s reach and solidifying its position in the market.

E. “Shot on iPhone” Campaign:

An exemplary manifestation of Apple’s marketing prowess is the “Shot on iPhone” campaign, an iconic initiative that showcases the device’s unparalleled capabilities through user-generated content. By featuring photos and videos captured by iPhone users, Apple not only demonstrates the quality of its product but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among its customer base. This user engagement not only enhances brand loyalty but also serves as a powerful marketing tool, amplifying Apple’s brand message and driving sales further.

3. Nike – Just Do It

In the realm of marketing ROI examples, Nike stands out prominently. Nike’s Marketing ROI was highlighted in the “2020 Millward Brown BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands” report, where they achieved a commendable ROI of 5.2, solidifying its position as a marketing powerhouse.

A significant contributor to Nike’s impressive ROI was their groundbreaking campaign featuring Colin Kaepernick, a polarizing figure known for his activism. Despite the controversy it stirred, Nike’s decision to incorporate Kaepernick into their iconic “Just Do It” campaign proved to be a stroke of genius.

The campaign’s impact was quantified in a Bloomberg article titled “How Nike’s Colin Kaepernick Ad Made $6 Billion in Sales,” revealing a staggering $6 billion in ROI. Nike’s strategic alignment with Kaepernick’s social justice advocacy resonated deeply with younger, socially conscious consumers, fueling conversations and driving sales to unprecedented heights.

This example underscores the power of authenticity and boldness in marketing strategies. By daring to take a stand and authentically aligning with a controversial figure, Nike not only generated significant revenue but also cemented its brand identity as a champion of social causes, fostering long-term brand loyalty and engagement.

4. Google – Best Paid Media Campaign

Google’s marketing strategies represent a paradigm of unparalleled return on investment (ROI) in the dynamic landscape of digital marketing. By meticulously leveraging its expansive suite of advertising platforms and cutting-edge analytics tools, Google has not only achieved market dominance but has also redefined the benchmark for effective marketing campaigns. Through an exploration of key facts, figures, quotations, and reports, this analysis will delve into the multifaceted dimensions of Google’s marketing prowess, demonstrating why it stands as the epitome of ROI-driven advertising in the digital age.

A. Market Dominance:

Google’s stranglehold on the global search engine market is undisputed, commanding over 92% of the market share as of January 2022, according to StatCounter. This dominance translates into unparalleled exposure for businesses leveraging Google’s advertising platforms.

B. Google Ads Revenue:

The financial magnitude of Google’s advertising revenue underscores its marketing success. In 2021 alone, Google generated approximately $181.69 billion in ad revenue, as reported by Statista, a testament to the effectiveness of its marketing services.

C. ROI Metrics:

Google Ads provides advertisers with robust tools for tracking ROI, enabling precise measurement of campaign performance. Studies, such as the one conducted by WordStream, reveal that the average ROI for Google Ads across all industries stands at an impressive 200%, highlighting the platform’s ability to deliver tangible returns on advertising investment.

D. Testimonials and Case Studies:

Industry experts, including renowned digital marketer Neil Patel, have lauded Google Ads as one of the most effective means to drive leads and sales. Furthermore, case studies from companies like Airbnb serve as compelling evidence of Google Ads’ efficacy in delivering measurable results for businesses of all sizes.

E. Industry Recognition:

Google Ads’ excellence in delivering results for advertisers has been consistently acknowledged by prestigious awards. In 2021, it received the “Best Paid Media Campaign“ award at the Digiday Media Awards, further affirming its status as a leader in the digital marketing sphere.

5. Old Spice: The Man Your Man Could Smell Like

Old Spice’s marketing campaigns have indeed become emblematic of high ROI (Return on Investment) in the marketing realm. 

A. “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” Campaign: 

Old Spice’s breakthrough campaign in 2010 featuring the character Isaiah Mustafa became an instant sensation. The campaign generated a significant buzz both online and offline, leading to impressive results. According to Procter & Gamble (P&G), the parent company of Old Spice, the campaign resulted in a sales increase of 125%.

B. Social Media Engagement: 

The campaign’s success extended to social media platforms, where Old Spice engaged with its audience in an innovative and interactive manner. The campaign’s YouTube videos garnered millions of views, and its Twitter account saw a substantial increase in followers and engagement. For instance, within 24 hours of the campaign launch, Old Spice’s Twitter following increased by 2700%, and its Facebook fan interaction increased by 800%.

C. Continued Success with Sequels: 

Old Spice followed up its initial campaign with a series of sequels featuring the same character and tone. These subsequent campaigns maintained the brand’s momentum and continued to drive engagement and sales. For instance, the “Smell Like a Man, Man” campaign contributed to a 107% increase in body wash sales.

6. Samsung – Do What You Can’t

Samsung is often cited as a prime example of successful marketing with a high return on investment (ROI). Let’s explore its ROI and Marketing strategies

According to market research firm IDC, Samsung has maintained a significant share of the global smartphone market for several years. For example, in 2023, Samsung held the second-largest share of the global smartphone market at around 19%, trailing only behind Apple. Additionally, Samsung dominates in other product categories such as televisions, home appliances, and semiconductor chips, further solidifying its position as a marketing powerhouse across various sectors.

A. Brand Value:

Samsung consistently ranks high in global brand valuation reports. According to Interbrand’s annual Best Global Brands report, Samsung has consistently been ranked among the top global brands, reflecting the effectiveness of its marketing strategies in enhancing brand value. Moreover, according to Brand Finance’s Global 500 report, Samsung has consistently ranked among the most valuable brands globally, indicating strong brand equity derived from successful marketing initiatives.

B. Innovative Marketing Campaigns:

Samsung is known for its innovative and attention-grabbing marketing campaigns. For example, its “Do What You Can’t” campaign garnered widespread acclaim for its motivational message and creative execution, contributing to brand differentiation and consumer engagement. The company’s strategic partnerships with influencers, celebrities, and sports organizations have also been instrumental in expanding its reach and connecting with diverse consumer segments.

C. Digital Marketing Excellence:

Samsung has demonstrated prowess in digital marketing, leveraging social media platforms and online channels to engage consumers effectively. For instance, its interactive and immersive digital campaigns have generated significant buzz and user engagement, driving brand awareness and product consideration.

D. Industry Recognition:

Samsung’s marketing prowess is acknowledged by industry experts and accolades. The company has received numerous awards for marketing excellence, including Cannes Lions, Effie Awards, and Adweek’s Brand Genius Awards, underscoring its leadership in marketing innovation and effectiveness.

7. Microsoft – Stories campaign

Microsoft’s marketing efforts have indeed been widely regarded as exemplary in terms of return on investment (ROI). In a landscape increasingly dominated by digital dynamics, It has embarked on a transformative journey aimed at maximizing returns on marketing investments. With a strategic shift towards digital platforms, Its commitment to innovation and efficiency has led to remarkable results in terms of ROI. This transformation underscores the company’s dedication to harnessing the power of digital marketing to drive substantial returns and solidify its position as a leader in the industry.

A. Digital Marketing Transformation:

Microsoft has undergone a significant digital marketing transformation in recent years, investing heavily in digital channels to reach its target audience effectively. According to a report by Gartner, Microsoft increased its digital marketing spend by over 10% in 2022, demonstrating a strategic shift towards digital platforms.

B. Content Marketing Success: 

Microsoft’s content marketing strategy has been particularly successful in driving ROI. In a case study published by the Content Marketing Institute, Microsoft’s “Stories” campaign was highlighted as a prime example of engaging storytelling that resonated with its audience. The campaign generated a 15% increase in brand awareness and a 30% boost in customer engagement, translating into substantial ROI.

C. Data-Driven Approach: 

Microsoft leverages advanced analytics and data-driven insights to optimize its marketing campaigns for maximum ROI. According to a report by Forrester Research, Microsoft’s adoption of AI-powered analytics tools resulted in a 20% increase in marketing ROI within the first year of implementation.

D. Customer-Centric Marketing: 

Microsoft prioritizes customer-centric marketing strategies aimed at delivering personalized experiences across various touchpoints. This approach has proven highly effective in driving customer loyalty and advocacy. A survey conducted by Nielsen found that 78% of Microsoft customers reported feeling more connected to the brand due to personalized marketing efforts, contributing to increased ROI.

E. Partnership Marketing: 

Microsoft has forged strategic partnerships with other industry leaders to amplify its marketing reach and impact. For instance, its collaboration with Adobe on integrated marketing solutions has been lauded for its ability to deliver seamless customer experiences. According to a joint report by Microsoft and Adobe, companies leveraging their integrated solutions witnessed a 25% increase in marketing ROI compared to those using standalone platforms.

F. Industry Recognition: 

Microsoft’s marketing excellence has been consistently recognized by industry experts and organizations. For example, it was named the “Most Valuable Global Brand” by Forbes for multiple consecutive years, reflecting the effectiveness of its marketing efforts in driving brand value and ROI.

8. Dove – Real Beauty

In the ever-evolving landscape of marketing, where capturing consumer attention amidst the noise of competing brands is a formidable challenge, Dove’s approach stands out as a beacon of excellence. At the heart of Dove’s marketing triumph lies the iconic “Real Beauty” campaign, launched in 2004 with the audacious aim of challenging conventional beauty standards and fostering a more inclusive definition of beauty. This campaign not only captured the essence of societal shifts towards authenticity and diversity but also yielded tangible returns, making it a quintessential example of achieving remarkable ROI through purpose-driven marketing endeavors. Let’s delve deeper into the metrics, analyses, and industry recognition that underscore Dove’s marketing prowess.

A. Campaign Success Metrics:

Dove’s “Real Beauty” campaign, launched in 2004, aimed to challenge beauty stereotypes and celebrate diversity. This campaign resonated strongly with consumers, leading to increased brand loyalty and positive sentiment. According to a report by Unilever, Dove’s parent company, the Real Beauty campaign generated a significant ROI. For every dollar spent on the campaign, Dove reportedly saw a return of $1.81, a figure that surpasses industry averages.

B. Market Share Growth:

Dove’s marketing efforts have contributed to substantial market share growth within the beauty and personal care industry. Market research firm Euromonitor International reported that Dove held a leading position in several key markets, including the United States and the United Kingdom, attributing much of this success to its impactful marketing campaigns.

C. Consumer Engagement and Social Media Impact:

Dove’s campaigns have sparked widespread engagement on social media platforms, with millions of consumers sharing and discussing its advertisements. According to a study by Kantar, Dove’s “Real Beauty Sketches” campaign became one of the most viral ads of all time, garnering over 3.7 million shares within a month of its release. This extensive reach translated into heightened brand awareness and affinity.

D. Brand Reputation and Awards:

Dove’s commitment to promoting body positivity and inclusivity has earned it numerous accolades and industry recognition. The campaign received widespread acclaim, including awards such as the Cannes Lions Grand Prix for Creative Effectiveness, further solidifying its status as a benchmark for successful marketing campaigns.

9. Netflix – subscription based services

Netflix has become synonymous with effective marketing strategies, often hailed as a prime example of maximizing return on investment (ROI) in the realm of digital marketing. By meticulously crafting campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences and leveraging cutting-edge technology to personalize user experiences, Netflix has redefined the landscape of content consumption and subscription-based services. In this exploration, we delve into the intricacies of Netflix’s marketing prowess, backed by a wealth of facts, figures, and industry reports. From its staggering subscriber growth to its strategic investments in original content and global expansion efforts, we uncover the key elements that underpin Netflix’s status as a marketing ROI exemplar.

A. Subscriber Growth: 

Netflix’s subscriber growth is a testament to its effective marketing efforts. As of the latest available data, Netflix boasts over 222 million paid subscribers worldwide, showcasing its widespread popularity and market penetration. (Source: Netflix Investor Relations)

B. Content Budget: 

One of Netflix’s primary marketing strategies revolves around its substantial investment in original content. In 2023 alone, Netflix spent approximately $17 billion on content production and acquisition. This massive budget allows Netflix to continuously release high-quality and diverse content, catering to various audience preferences.

C. Word-of-Mouth Marketing: 

Netflix’s original content often generates significant buzz and word-of-mouth marketing, amplifying its reach without hefty advertising expenditures. For instance, popular series like “Stranger Things” and “The Crown” have garnered widespread acclaim and social media buzz, contributing to increased subscriber acquisition and retention. 

D. Global Expansion: 

Netflix’s successful expansion into international markets further underscores its effective marketing strategies. By tailoring content offerings and marketing campaigns to local tastes and preferences, Netflix has successfully penetrated diverse markets worldwide. For instance, Netflix’s investments in original foreign-language content have resonated with audiences globally, driving subscriber growth in regions like Europe, Asia, and Latin America. 

E. Brand Partnerships and Collaborations: 

Netflix frequently collaborates with influential brands and celebrities to enhance its marketing reach and visibility. For example, Netflix’s partnership with popular K-pop group BTS for the Korean drama “Squid Game” contributed to heightened anticipation and interest in the series, resulting in record-breaking viewership numbers.

10. Airbnb – Live There

Airbnb’s marketing strategies have indeed exemplified remarkable return on investment (ROI) within the realm of digital marketing. 

A. Content Marketing: 

Airbnb has excelled in content marketing by leveraging user-generated content (UGC). According to a report by Mavrck, Airbnb’s Instagram posts featuring user-generated content outperform its brand-generated content by 30%. This highlights the effectiveness of harnessing authentic experiences shared by users to engage and attract potential customers.

B. Innovative Campaigns: 

“Live There” Campaign: One of Airbnb’s most notable marketing initiatives is the “Live There” campaign, launched in 2016. This campaign aimed to position Airbnb as a platform for authentic, local experiences rather than merely accommodation. By showcasing real-life stories and experiences of Airbnb hosts and guests, the “Live There” campaign sought to evoke emotions and inspire travelers to immerse themselves in local culture.

C. Airbnb’s ROI:

Airbnb’s marketing initiatives have consistently delivered impressive returns on investment (ROI), underscoring the effectiveness of its strategic approach. For instance, studies have shown that in 2018, it earned an average of $5.20 for every $1 spent on influencer marketing.

D. Social Media Engagement: 

Airbnb maintains an active presence across various social media platforms. As of January 2022, Airbnb had over 5.3 million followers on Instagram, 5.1 million followers on Facebook, and 4.2 million followers on Twitter. Through engaging content and interactive campaigns, Airbnb cultivates a sense of community among its audience, fostering brand loyalty and driving organic reach.

E. Influencer Partnerships: 

Airbnb has strategically collaborated with influencers to amplify its brand message. For instance, in 2017, Airbnb partnered with social media influencer Mariah Carey for its #LiveThere campaign, which aimed to promote local experiences over traditional tourist attractions. This campaign garnered significant attention and engagement, contributing to Airbnb’s brand visibility and customer acquisition efforts.

Strategies to improve ROI in marketing:

Here are some effective strategies to enhance ROI in marketing:

A. Set Clear Objectives: 

Define specific, measurable goals for your marketing campaigns, such as increasing sales, generating leads, or boosting brand awareness.

B. Track Metrics: 

Use tools like Google Analytics, CRM systems, and marketing automation platforms to track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, conversion rates, and customer acquisition cost.

C. Segment Your Audience: 

Tailor your marketing messages and offers to different segments of your target audience based on factors like demographics, interests, and behavior. This can improve the relevance and effectiveness of your campaigns.

D. Optimize Campaigns: 

Continuously monitor and analyze the performance of your marketing campaigns, and make adjustments as needed to optimize results. This may involve tweaking ad copy, adjusting targeting parameters, or reallocating budget to higher-performing channels.

E. Focus on High-ROI Channels: 

Identify the marketing channels and tactics that consistently deliver the highest return on investment, and allocate more resources to those areas while scaling back on less effective strategies.

F. Invest in Content Marketing: 

Create high-quality, valuable content that resonates with your target audience and helps establish your brand as a thought leader in your industry. Content marketing can be a cost-effective way to attract and engage potential customers over the long term.

G. Leverage Data and Analytics: 

Use data-driven insights to make informed decisions about where to allocate your marketing budget and how to optimize your campaigns for maximum ROI. Experiment with A/B testing and other testing methodologies to identify what works best for your audience.

H. Focus on Customer Lifetime Value (CLV):

Instead of just looking at immediate sales, consider the long-term value of acquiring a customer. By increasing customer retention and lifetime value, you can improve the overall ROI of your marketing efforts.

I. Invest in SEO: 

Improve your website’s search engine optimization (SEO) to increase organic traffic and reduce your reliance on paid advertising. SEO can provide a high ROI over time as your site ranks higher in search results and attracts more qualified leads.

J. Monitor Competitors: 

Keep an eye on what your competitors are doing in terms of marketing strategies and tactics. This can help you identify opportunities for improvement and stay ahead in your industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the exploration of the 10 Best Marketing ROI examples underscores the pivotal role of strategic marketing in driving business success and profitability. From iconic brands like Coca-Cola and Apple to innovative disruptors like Netflix, each case study illuminates the power of effective marketing strategies in generating tangible returns on investment.

By dissecting the methodologies behind these exemplary campaigns, we’ve gleaned valuable insights into the principles and practices that underpin marketing success. From personalized experiences to data-driven decision-making, the common thread among these examples is a relentless focus on understanding consumer needs and delivering compelling value propositions.