Episode 34: The Power of “From”: ...

Episode 34: The Power of “From”: The Country-of-Origin Effect

People, Places, Power by Nick Cull & Simon Anholt

Episode notes

This episode revisits a key concept in the study of international image: the ‘country-of-origin effect’ by which countries can enhance the value of products made there and vice versa. Simon notes that an estimated 1/3 of all value in the world is locked in brand value and the desire of some developing countries to develop international brands. He recalls the successful case of Dilmah tea as a Sri Lankan brand. Nick recalls the success of Germany in repositioning its Country-of-Origin narrative from inexpensive manufactured goods in the late 19th century to its high-quality well-designed products in the early 20th century and since – a trajectory followed by Japan and now by China. They discuss brands which imply a false origin and recent attempts to protect an image as when Jamaica objected to Adidas using its national colors on shoes.