Ever Heard of The Ohio Art Company?

Sometimes publicity just happens. 

In a March 21, 2012 appearance on CNN "Starting Point with Soledad O’Brien," Romney for President senior advisor Eric Fehrnstrom spoke about the upcoming general election campaign.

"...for the fall campaign everything changes.  It's almost like an Etch A Sketch--you can kind of shake it up and restart all over again."

The remark was not helpful to Romney, who had a reputation as a "flip-flopper" and was still engaged in the primary campaign.  His Republican opponents and Democrats seized on the comment.  A huge amount of buzz developed, benefiting The Ohio Art Company, makers of Etch A Sketch.

March 23, 2012

Statement from Ohio Art, the makers of Etch A Sketch

Happy to see Etch A Sketch, an American classic toy, is DRAWING attention with political candidates as a cultural icon and important piece of our society. A profound toy, highly recognized and loved by all, is now SHAKING up the national debate. Nothing is as quintessentially American as Etch A Sketch and a good old fashion political debate.

We are pleased with the added attention being drawn to Etch A Sketch which is truly one of the most recognizable, iconic and fun toys ever developed. As one of the most classic toys of all time, Etch A Sketch has always sold particularly well with today's consumer. It is too early to tell, but we are hopeful to see if there is an uptake in sales given this recent exposure.

The Ohio Art Company has been in the toy business for more than 100 years and Etch A Sketch for over five decades. Our company values bringing smiles to kids faces and providing hours of fun playtime for young kids.

Martin Killgallon
Senior VP Marketing & Product Development

One of several ads from March 30, 2012: