â–¶ Samsung at Top of Tech Brand Mountain: Samsung is the most preferred consumer technology brand—at least in Europe and in the U.S.—ahead of Sony, HP and even Apple, according to the ConsumerMetrix Technology Brand Preference Index released in June 2012 by Strategy Analytics. In a survey of 6,000 consumers in the U.S. and Europe, Samsung, which has vaulted from a no-name brand to a global leader in 15 years, received the highest overall preference rating of +41%, followed by Sony at +29 %, HP at +20% and Apple at +19%. Other findings:
• The study identified significant regional and demographic variations in brand preference. Apple is the third-most-preferred brand in Italy, but ranks eighth in Germany.
• Apple’s popularity also diminishes in line with age—it is the second-most-popular brand with consumers under age 20, but ranks only 10th with those over 65.
• The lowest brand ratings were given to Lenovo (-37%), BlackBerry maker RIM (-28%) and Sanyo (-26%).
Source: Strategy Analytics
â–¶ Politics Driving Civility Disorder: A rancorous political environment is primarily responsible for driving a “national civility disorder,” and most Americans say politics is increasingly uncivil, complicating resolution of major issues and deterring people from entering public service, says a new poll by Weber Shandwick, Powell Tate and KRC Research. Reinforcing these perceptions, nearly seven in 10 Americans (67%) expect the upcoming November election process to be uncivil. Other findings include:
• Two-thirds (63%) of Americans believe incivility remains a “major problem.” The survey also found that nearly three-quarters (71%) believe civility has declined in recent years and 55% expect the decline to continue, with politics and government being most responsible for the problem.
• About eight in 10 Americans say political campaigns are uncivil and politics is becoming more uncivil. Substantial majorities think the tone of public discourse is harming America’s future.
• While only 17% of the public reported being untouched by incivility, fewer Americans this year reported personal experiences with incivility on the road (60% in 2012 vs. 72% in 2011); while shopping (49% vs. 65%); at work (34% vs. 43%); and in their neighborhoods (28% vs. 35%). PRN
Source: Weber Shandwick/Powell Tate/KRC Research