2. United Airlines’ Redemption via Reddit
After a public relations nightmare involving passenger mistreatment, United Airlines became a regular punching bag on Reddit. The subreddit r/mildlyinfuriating and r/airlines were filled with posts ranting about United’s service.
But instead of going defensive, United did something unexpected. They launched a social listening initiative, monitoring Reddit threads for authentic feedback. This led to a campaign called “We Hear You,” where United addressed specific complaints in real-time with thoughtful responses and behind-the-scenes content showing changes—even crediting Reddit users for surfacing insights.
Marketing Lesson: Reddit threads offer unsolicited, honest feedback. Brands that show they’re truly listening can rebuild trust, even after controversy.
Also Read : How Small Businesses Can Use ASMR on Social Media
3. Wendy’s Roasts Get a Reddit Edge
Wendy’s Twitter presence is iconic, but its strategy wasn’t born on Twitter alone. A 2016 thread on r/funny titled “Why is Wendy’s the sassiest fast food chain?” began trending with screenshots and fan-made roast battles. This organically validated that Wendy’s snarky tone resonated with internet users beyond Twitter.
Soon after, Wendy’s began actively participating in r/AskReddit AMAs (Ask Me Anything), embraced more Reddit-style humor in campaigns like “Feast of Legends” (a D&D-inspired fast food RPG), and leaned further into roast culture.
Marketing Lesson: Reddit-inspired brand campaigns are stronger when you listen to your fanbase, not just talk at them. Reddit can affirm whether your tone really resonates—or backfires.
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Up next: How a forgotten snack made a comeback and how a gaming brand found its tribe on Reddit.
