The History of Marketing: Learn it all in 5 Minutes [Infographic]

Intro

Marketing in the early days involved primitive advertising methods such as papyrus posters and word-of-mouth recommendations in Egypt, Greece, and Rome. As society progressed, guilds and trade associations in the Middle Ages used street peddling, door-to-door sales, fairs, and markets to promote their goods.

History of Marketing Timeline

Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, marketing became more organized with the rise of guilds and trade associations. These organizations were responsible for regulating quality, setting prices, and promoting their goods and services. They used tactics such as street peddling, door-to-door sales, and fairs and markets to attract customers.

Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution, which took place in the 18th and 19th centuries, brought about significant changes in the way products were produced and marketed. The mass production of goods made it possible to sell products on a much larger scale, while transportation and communication technologies facilitated reaching customers in different parts of the world.

Advertising gained prominence during the Industrial Revolution, with companies using newspapers, billboards, and other forms of media to promote their products. Volney Palmer established the first advertising agency in 1841, and by the early 20th century, advertising had become a multi-billion dollar industry.

20th Century

The 20th century was a pivotal era for marketing as companies started embracing market research, branding, and public relations. Market research helped companies better understand customers’ needs and preferences, while branding became an effective way to differentiate products and foster emotional connections with customers. Meanwhile, public relations became crucial for managing a company’s reputation and building strong relationships with stakeholders.

Late 20th Century and Early 21st Century

The rise of the internet in the late 20th century and early 21st century has brought about a new era of marketing, with digital marketing becoming increasingly important. Companies now use a wide range of digital channels, such as social media, email marketing, and search engines, to reach and engage with customers.

Current Days

Marketing has undergone tremendous changes over the years, but at its core, it remains all about connecting businesses with their customers and creating value for both. Whether it’s through old-school advertising, word of mouth, or modern digital marketing strategies, the ultimate goal of marketing is to build relationships and provide customers with something they truly want or need.