The Top 10 Viral Ads of All Time

In 2005 three young guys founded YouTube and triggered a digital avalanche. The “Viral” video clip was born. Brands realized the vast marketing possibilities of this new medium and are battling for the attention of the digital customer.

But who are the most prominent brands on YouTube and can a “viral” really generate significant revenue? Social media consultants would answer the question with “Yes, of course” while other experts would doubt a significant return on investment.

Advertising Age and Visible Measures identified the most successful branded video clips of all time. The top place is occupied by asmall enterprise which has gained Internet fame throughout the past years. Blendtec. With over 134 million views, the destruction of iPhone, iPad and anything you could think of has boosted the brands fame.  The company started out in a garage 23-years ago. The revenues of 20$ million in 2004 soared to 40$ million in 2009. Now that’s a success story that can make you feel jealous.

The second most watched clip was the Evian Roller Babes, which has had several appearances in the Adage Viral Ad Chart for months now. The clip just made the 100 million views recently while the clip is online since over a year.

In third place is the well know “Old Spice” guy, who has been the cause for an increase in motorbike sales and fitness club subscriptions. The personalized clips have reached millions of people in months. A true spark of genius.

Rank 1. – Blendtec – Views: 134,256,499 – Launch Date: 10/30/06

Rank 2. – Evian – Views: 103,867,704 – Launch Date: 6/4/09

Rank 3. – Old Spice – Views: 57,132,669 – Launch Date: 7/12/10

Rank 4. – Pepsi – Views: 46,742,892 – Launch Date: 1/1/04

Rank 5. – Xbox – Views: 42,698,599 – Launch Date: 6/1/09

Rank 6. – Dove – Views: 41,100,418 – Launch Date: 10/1/06

Rank 7. – T-Mobile – Views: 35,487,575 – Launch Date: 1/15/09

Rank 8. – Doritos – Views: 34,168,845 – Launch Date: 1/5/10

Rank 9. – Old Spice – Views: 33,986,750 – Launch Date: 3/31/10

Rank 10. – DC Shoes – Views: 32,872,531 – Launch Date: 9/3/09