Flashback to November 9

Sports History

1937

It is revealed Quaker Oats pays baseball player Babe Ruth $25,000 per year for ads

Read more

On March 25, 1937, an intriguing revelation shook the world of sports and advertising when it was disclosed that Quaker Oats was paying the legendary baseball player, Babe Ruth, a staggering $25,000 per year for ads. This unexpected news immediately grabbed headlines and sparked discussions about the unprecedented partnership between a renowned athlete and a prominent brand. With Babe Ruth’s superstar status and Quaker Oats’ commitment to promoting their products, this collaboration seemed to have all the ingredients for success.

Babe Ruth, commonly known as the Sultan of Swat, had already cemented his place in baseball history with his exceptional skills and charismatic personality. As one of the most iconic figures in the sport, Ruth’s endorsement held significant weight, making him a sought-after brand ambassador. Quaker Oats, a well-established food company, recognized the potential of associating their products with the larger-than-life Ruth.

At the time, it was highly unusual for a brand to invest such a substantial amount in an athlete for advertising purposes. The $25,000 annual payment to Babe Ruth represented a substantial commitment on the part of Quaker Oats. However, the company’s leaders were convinced that Ruth’s influence and popularity would greatly benefit their brand and ultimately lead to increased sales.

The partnership focused on featuring Babe Ruth in print advertisements, commercials, and other promotional materials for Quaker Oats products, particularly their breakfast cereals. By associating their brand with a sports legend like Ruth, Quaker Oats aimed to foster a positive image and gain credibility among consumers.

This collaboration between Babe Ruth and Quaker Oats showcased the early stages of athlete endorsements, a marketing strategy that would later become commonplace in the world of sports. The concept of using influential figures to endorse products was relatively new at the time, and Babe Ruth’s involvement in this ground-breaking partnership paved the way for future celebrity endorsements.

The announcement of this partnership was met with mixed reactions. While many praised Quaker Oats for choosing such a renowned athlete to represent their brand, others expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of such high-profile endorsements. However, as time went on, it became clear that this collaboration was a stroke of genius.

Babe Ruth’s association with Quaker Oats undoubtedly contributed to the brand’s success. Ruth’s larger-than-life persona and his contagious enthusiasm for the products he endorsed resonated with consumers across the nation. His involvement in Quaker Oats’ advertising campaigns helped create a strong emotional connection between the brand and its audience.

The partnership between Babe Ruth and Quaker Oats not only benefitted the brand financially but also elevated the reputation of athlete endorsements in general. As other companies witnessed the positive impact of such collaborations, they began seeking out other sports stars to represent their brands. Today, athlete endorsements are a multi-million dollar industry, with countless brands relying on athletes to promote their products.

the revelation that Quaker Oats paid Babe Ruth $25,000 per year for ads back in 1937 was a groundbreaking moment in the world of sports and advertising. This partnership between a legendary athlete and a prominent brand proved to be a game-changer, setting the stage for the athlete endorsement industry we see today. Babe Ruth’s association with Quaker Oats not only elevated the company’s image but also solidified his status as a revered sports icon.

We strive for accuracy. If you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us!


Contact Us
Today's Flashback in Sports History | November 9

Wake Up to Today's Flashback

Subscribe now to receive captivating daily digests from Today's Flashback. Delve into a variety of intriguing past events, all conveniently delivered to your inbox. Perfect for history enthusiasts and the curious alike!

We care about your data. View our privacy policy.
" "