Re: Packard & Hudson proximity

Posted by Craig the Clipper Man On 2013/2/13 7:17:16

While I think that it is interesting to speculate about whether or not the Predictor or Panther could have saved Packard, the fact is that by 1956 the company was literally broke. Packard did not have the money for R&D, a decent advertising campaign, or much of anything else. The time for a good advertising campaign should long have preceded the "Let the Ride Decide" slogan. By that time dealers were shuttering the doors and the public moving on down the street to look at the Cadillacs and Buicks. Nance himself complained bitterly in 1954 that Packard's print ads and television/radio ads were lousy and unattractive. Compare ads for Cadillacs in 1955 vs. Packards and you'll see what I mean.

There is also the public perception that when a business is on the verge of going under buyers stay away in droves. An example: Ever walk into a store that is in its final days before closing its doors forever? When I have, I have felt uncomfortable walking down barren aisles depleted of merchandise. I almost feel like I am an invader. Despite the "bargains" to be had, I almost feel like I am taking advantage of someone who is suffering and I can't wait to get out of there. This might have been similar to how the public felt about Packard, despite knowing the quality was excellent.