Trevor McDonald and a dachshund top UK's best ads in October

Each month, hundreds of new TV ads launch in the UK. Marketing research and effectiveness company System1 analyzed the latest spots to see what resonated most with the public. It also predicts long-term brand growth (star rating) and short-term sales growth (spike rating). That’s then validated against IPA data and sales data. You’ll see all of that converted into a star rating. The higher, the better.

5. Sky ‘Your Ticket to the Big Screen’ - 3.9-Stars

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“Sky’s latest film promotion, ‘Your Ticket to the Big Screen,’ features Idris Elba in a thrilling cinematic adventure. The ad playfully breaks the fourth wall, immersing Elba and his nephew in a high-speed, action-packed escapade that nods to iconic movie scenes and car chases. It concludes with the duo landing in front of a Vue cinema to claim their two free tickets, making the offer memorable and entertaining for the audience.”

4. Ginsters’ Taste the Effort’ – 4.0-Stars

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“In a clever twist on the ‘farm interview’ advertising trend, Ginsters gently pokes fun at the genre with a profile of Merryn, a farmer who grows potatoes for its Cornish Pasties. The ad starts seriously, then humorously showcases Merryn dressed as a scarecrow and tending to crops. This playful approach aligns with Ginsters’ down-to-earth brand image while celebrating their product. Part of the ‘Taste the Effort’ campaign, it successfully shifts Ginsters’ positioning. It communicates product quality with humor and authenticity, earning strong viewer ratings for its brand message and entertainment value.”

3. Tesco’ The Power Within’ - 4.3-Stars

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“Amid the UK’s inflation and cost of living concerns, loyalty cards are coming back with a focus on immediate discounts. Tesco’s ‘The Power Within’ campaign highlights their Clubcard Prices scheme with entertaining ads where customers sing about their savings. This approach has earned the campaign a strong 4.3-Star rating, illustrating the effectiveness of cultural references in advertising during economic challenges.”

2. McVitie’s ‘There is Only One’ - 4.3-Stars

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“McVitie’s, a well-known biscuit brand, asserts itself as an iconic part of British culture in a new TV campaign titled ‘There Is Only One.’ The ad features esteemed journalist Trevor McDonald, who returns to a news desk after a 15-year retirement. The humorous spot showcases various poor imitations, emphasizing McVitie’s as the original and most-loved biscuit brand. McDonald, who enjoyed the collaboration, playfully added, ‘It’s ‘Sir’ Trevor McDonald and the biscuits are good too.’”

1. Vitality ‘Move Forward’ - 4.9-Stars

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“Vitality’s latest brand campaign, developed with SNAP LDN, showcases Stanley the Dachshund, the company’s mascot since 2015. In this campaign, Stanley now embraces exercise and positive living, reflecting Vitality’s commitment to promoting well-being and challenging insurance industry norms. The campaign extends across different audiences and media channels, emphasizing the concept of ‘always moving forward’ as a positive message, resulting in an impressive 4.9-Star rating and this month’s top ad.”