Are Hotline Number Ads Outdated? These Campaigns Prove Otherwise

The most memorable ad campaigns don’t just talk at people- they invite them to participate! By giving people something to do, discover, or respond to, brands can turn a simple campaign into an experience that stays with their audience.

In this case, it’s as simple as a phone call.

Let’s talk about how these 4 brands successfully created interactive experiences and captivated their audience by using a hotline number!

1. 1-844-THTS-HOT

The return of the fan-favorite Volacano Menu at Taco Bell was a hit with lovers of spicy food, who had been waiting for its comeback since the early 2000s. To drum up some heat for its grand return, the team released an eye-catching commercial telling watchers to dial 1-844-THTS-HOT for advice on “what’s hot” and “what’s not.”

None other than the icon of 2000s nostalgia, Paris Hilton, was chosen to rewind the clock and assume command of the hotline by means of 6 unique recorded messages. Taco Bell’s returning menu was, as she put it, “the epitome of hot.”

2. 855-4-HEYDUDE

Fashion crisis? Don’t panic, HEYDUDE has your back (or maybe your feet?)

To kick off their newest campaign, HEYDUDE’s teams advertised their hotline number: 1-855-4-HEYDUDE. When dialed, the number featured a message from their ambassador and “Director of Dude”, Sydney Sweeney. Fans were then encouraged to leave a message with their style dilemma.

In addition, HEYDUDE also hosted a pop-up event where attendees were able to participate by asking for fashion advice on a giant pink rotary phone! In the end, consumers got the idea – HEYDUDE is the answer to any fashion crisis.

3. 1-855-HOT-SOUP

Ever dreamed of Jason Kelce describing various soup flavors to you over the phone? Well, you’re in luck, because that’s exactly what Campbell’s gave us with their “hot soup” campaign. The ad spots featured the former NFL player lounging by a fire, telling viewers to dial 1-855-HOT-SOUP. When dialed, listeners could hear Kelce describe Campbell’s newest spicy soups!

Fans were NOT disappointed. Thousands of comments poured in from those who had called the toll free hotline number. Some even called back multiple times to hear all the options.

“This is hilarious and amazing. Please call the number. Completely absurd and, yeah, I’m probably gonna go buy some chunky, spicy, chicken noodle soup now so..” said one Facebook comment.

4. (833) 526-8880

Prada’s fall 2024 campaign introduced a hands-on element that gave shoppers a glimpse into the conversations behind the photoshoot. The team enlisted filmmaker and writer Miranda July to take the lead on the campaign. But her work didn’t stop there; if you called 833-526-8880 you could speak to July herself!

A billboard advertising the hotline number was spotted in many major cities: New York, LA, Milan, London, and more. To further spread the word, July herself posted to Instagram with the caption: “Call me💋☎️(833)526-8880”

While July’s voice was, of course, pre-recorded, the conversations were dynamic and depended on the caller’s responses. She offered friendly conversation, free advice, and even a little storytime! This reinforced the campaign’s theme of presence and connection, which resonated with many.

Would your customers call your hotline number?

The most important part of a hotline is the phone number!

Make sure you pick one that is memorable and easy to dial. You can also connect it to the brand or product being promoted. Maybe use a catchy word from your company’s slogan. Alternatively, use a CTA (call to action) or another memorable keyword.

Toll free numbers (ex. 866, 833, 800) are commonly used as well since they are often perceived as being more legitimate and having a national presence. However, local numbers can be used (and have been!) If you are looking for more tips on choosing a hotline number, visit our blog post How To Choose the Perfect Memorable Phone Number.

If you’d like to see more examples of hotline number campaigns, check out our previous article 4 of Our Favorite Hotline Campaigns.

What do you think? Would a hotline number campaign work for your company?