TEXT OF STORY
Scott Jagow: The Obama inauguration, among other things, is an opportunity for marketers. Companies are trying to capitalize on this wave of change. Course, they’re also trying to make money. Marketplace’s Jeff Tyler reports.
Jeff Tyler: Hennessy Cognac is selling special bottles marked “In honor of the 44th president.” Some of the proceeds will fund college scholarships.
Starbucks is supporting Obama’s call for national service:
Rodney Hines: We’re asking folks to pledge five hours to doing community service.
Starbucks’ Rodney Hines says that, in return:
Hines: They will receive a free tall cup of coffee.
Quaker Oats is giving away oatmeal to the poor. Consumers who buy the product register online. Then:
Shelley Haus: We, along with Share Our Strength, will donate one bowl of oatmeal until we meet one million families in-need.
That’s Quaker spokesperson Shelley Haus.
Haus: Quaker Oats is tapping into this feeling of optimism and using that as an inspiration to get people involved with feeding the hungry.
The message from companies to consumers: You’re not just spending money, you’re making a difference.
I’m Jeff Tyler for Marketplace.