UNC fans now can show their school spirit in a unique way — thanks to new branding campaigns by TOMS Shoes and Pop-Tarts.
In both cases, UNC is receiving a royalty rate from the sales. These royalties are then donated to the Office of Scholarships and Student Aid to support the educational goals of UNC students through need-based and merit-based scholarships.
UNC should continue to encourage branding campaigns like the ones used by TOMS and Pop-Tarts. Not only do these products bring in money that the University can use for the benefit of the student body, they also work to promote UNC as a national (and international) brand.
UNC Student Stores and regional Wal-Marts are carrying the UNC-themed Pop-Tarts exclusively, while TOMS sells its UNC shoes online.
Branding campaigns play an integral role in garnering interest in the University. If UNC continues to brand itself through big-time companies, it could see more admission applications.
Keeping in mind that localization is a key part of branding campaigns, UNC should continue to seek branding for products that will be used by prospective college students as well as current students.
These products are a great way for current students to give back to their school.
Buying a box of UNC Pop-Tarts also serves as a mini-donation. With increasing tuition in higher education, access to education is an important cause.
Having these sources of revenue improves access to education through the branding campaigns, and is in the interests of the University and those brands.
