There are plenty of brand activations at Comic Con, but quite a few of them just seem desperate. "Who can we get to help pay for this?" many clearly ask themselves—fair enough, it's hellishly expensive out here—but the easiest choice is not always the right one.
Accordingly, we found a few folks who have it figured out. From pizza to local bars to makeup, brands big and small from every part of the consumer experience can find a smart place at San Diego. It's just a matter of thinking creatively about where you might fit in.
Entertainment brands understand the value of having it click, too. "Partnerships that make sense are absolutely key for us," said Barnaby Legg, vp of theatrical marketing for Legendary Pictures, which is promoting upcoming films Crimson Peak and Pacific Rim 2, the latter with an integration with Oculus Rift (which is everywhere this week).